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[Primary meningococcal pericarditis caused by meningococcus serogroup C].
M Rayo Gutiérrez1, J Lacalzada Almeida, I Laynez Cerdeña
1Servicio de Cardiología. Hospital Universitario de Canarias. Santa Cruz de Tenerife.
Revista Espanola De Cardiologia
|November 21, 2000
Summary
Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C can cause purulent pericarditis and cardiac tamponade, even without meningitis. Prompt treatment with antibiotics, pericardiocentesis, and steroids led to an excellent outcome in a teenage patient.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Purulent pericarditis is a serious infection of the pericardium.
- Neisseria meningitidis is a known cause of bacterial meningitis and sepsis.
- Meningococcal pericarditis typically occurs with concurrent meningitis.
Observation:
- A 15-year-old female presented with cardiac tamponade.
- Purulent pericarditis was diagnosed, caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C.
- The patient had no preceding or concurrent central nervous system involvement.
Findings:
- This case represents primary meningococcal pericarditis, an unusual presentation.
- Neisseria meningitidis serogroup C was identified as the causative agent.
- The patient responded well to antibiotics, pericardiocentesis, and steroid therapy.
Implications:
- Meningococcal disease can manifest atypically, presenting diagnostic challenges.
- Early recognition of unusual presentations is crucial for timely intervention.
- This case highlights the importance of considering Neisseria meningitidis in purulent pericarditis, even without meningitis.