Splenic abscess Unusual bacterial infection Bacterial splenic abscess A splenic abscess caused by bacterial infection, typically with organisms such as Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella species, and gram-negative enteric bacteria. It may arise from hematogenous seeding, contiguous spread, or trauma. A recurrent or unusual bacterial splenic abscess can be a manifestation of unusual susceptibility to infection, particularly in phagocyte defects.