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Investigation for complement deficiency following meningococcal disease
S Hoare1, O El-Shazali, J E Clark
1Paediatric Infectious Diseases Unit, Newcastle General Hospital, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK. simon.hoare@dial.pipex.com
Archives of Disease in Childhood
|February 28, 2002
Summary
Routine screening for complement deficiencies after meningococcal disease (MCD) is unnecessary for most children, particularly those with B or C serogroup infections. However, individual patient history remains crucial for identifying potential immunological abnormalities.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The incidence of complement abnormalities in the UK is unknown.
- Paediatric textbooks suggest complement system testing after meningococcal disease (MCD).
Observation:
- 297 children diagnosed with MCD were screened for complement activity over four years.
- Most cases involved serogroups B or C.
Findings:
- One child with serogroup B meningococcal septicaemia was diagnosed with C2 deficiency.
- This child had prior indicators of immunological issues.
Implications:
- Routine screening post-MCD (serogroups B/C) is not recommended.
- Focus on individual patient history for prior infections or recurrent neisserial infections is vital for identifying potential complement deficiencies.