Related Experiment Videos

Primary meningococcal arthritis: case report and review

E J Giamarellos-Bourboulis1, P Grecka, G L Petrikkos

  • 14th Department of Internal Medicine, University of Athens, Medical School, Greece. giamarel@internet.gr

Insights

A rare case of primary meningococcal arthritis in a teen was successfully treated. Penicillin G effectively resolved the infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis in the knee joint.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Primary meningococcal arthritis is an uncommon manifestation of Neisseria meningitidis infection.
  • Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes.

Observation:

  • A 16-year-old female presented with arthritis exclusively affecting her left knee.
  • Neisseria meningitidis was identified in both blood and synovial fluid samples.

Findings:

  • The patient was diagnosed with primary meningococcal arthritis.
  • Cultures confirmed Neisseria meningitidis as the causative agent.

Implications:

  • This case highlights the importance of considering meningococcal infection in cases of septic arthritis, even without systemic signs.
  • Intravenous penicillin G demonstrated efficacy in treating this rare condition.

Related Concept Videos