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Meningococcal disease presenting as bronchiolitis
1Birmingham Heartlands Hospital, Bordesley Green, Birmingham, UK. jrhbrown@aol.com
The Journal of Infection
|June 22, 2002
Abstract:
Meningococcal disease is the leading infective cause of mortality in children. Bronchiolitis and meningococcal disease share some common features. Both are seasonal diseases with epidemics in winter. A preceding history of upper respiratory tract infection is commonly present in both. We report two cases of meningococcal disease in infants whose initial presentation was suggestive of bronchiolitis. We draw attention to tachypnoea as an important but overlooked early sign of meningococcal septicaemia.
Insights
Meningococcal disease, a leading cause of child mortality, can mimic bronchiolitis. Tachypnoea (rapid breathing) is a critical early indicator of meningococcal septicaemia, often overlooked in infants.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Infectious Diseases
- Respiratory Medicine
Background:
- Meningococcal disease is a primary cause of death in children.
- Bronchiolitis and meningococcal disease exhibit seasonal epidemics and similar preceding symptoms like upper respiratory infections.
- Distinguishing between these conditions in infants can be challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential for meningococcal disease to present with symptoms mimicking bronchiolitis in infants.
- To emphasize the significance of tachypnoea as an early warning sign for meningococcal septicaemia.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two infants presenting with symptoms initially suggestive of bronchiolitis.
- Clinical observation and analysis of presenting symptoms, focusing on respiratory signs.
Main Results:
- Both reported cases of meningococcal disease initially presented with signs resembling bronchiolitis.
- Tachypnoea was identified as a key, yet often underestimated, early indicator in these cases.
Conclusions:
- Meningococcal disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of infants presenting with bronchiolitis-like symptoms, especially during winter epidemics.
- Vigilance for tachypnoea is crucial for early detection and management of meningococcal septicaemia in infants.
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