Diagnosis of Typhoid

Typhoid fever isn't very prevalent in the U.S.. There are only 400 cases per year, notes the National Institutes of Health. Those who travel to developing nations--and who do not first receive a typhoid vaccine or exercise proper hygiene and eating/drinking habits while abroad--are more at risk for typhoid. Once symptoms appear, diagnosis is not difficult.

What is Typhoid?

• A bacteria called Salmonella typhi (S. typhi) is responsible for typhoid. S. typhi may be spread by consuming contaminated water, beverages and food, after which the bacteria enter the intestines and then the bloodstream, where they may spread to other body parts.

Typhoid Symptoms

• Initial typhoid symptoms include malaise, headache, diarrhea (or constipation), sore throat, fever as high as 104 degrees F, as well as a rash, notes the Mayo Clinic. Typhoid symptoms eventually worsen to include weight loss, a protruding abdomen and, ultimately, delirium (known as the "typhoid state").

Diagnosing Typhoid

• A presumptive diagnosis of typhoid may be made after your physician notes your signs and symptoms, as well as your travel history. But a sample of blood, stool, urine or bone marrow may also be collected to confirm the presence of S. typhi.

Other Tests

• Other tests that may be used to diagnose typhoid fever include an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) blood test and a fluorescent antibody test.

Typhoid Treatment

• In the U.S., typhoid fever in adults is treated with an antibiotic called ciproflaxin, states the Mayo Clinic. Pregnant women and children may be administered ceftriaxone injections. Drinking plenty of liquids and eating a healthy diet can also aid in recovery.