[Recurrent pericarditis during meningococcal meningitis. 2 case reports]

M Dupont1, F-B du Haut Cilly, C Arvieux

  • 1Service des maladies infectieuses, CHU Pontchaillou, Rennes. mathieu.dupont@chu-rennes.fr

Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|July 6, 2004
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Meningococcal meningitis can cause delayed pericardial inflammation, sometimes leading to tamponade. Early treatment with NSAIDs offers a favorable outcome for these rare extra-cerebral manifestations.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Cardiology
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Limited data exists on the frequency and management of extra-cerebral manifestations of Neisseria meningitidis meningitis.
  • Articular, pleural, and pericardial involvement can occur, with symptoms potentially delayed post-diagnosis.

Observation:

  • Two cases of meningococcal meningitis presented with recurrent pericarditis.
  • One patient developed pericarditis with tamponade requiring surgical drainage.

Findings:

  • Both patients achieved favorable outcomes with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
  • Distinguishing between purulent and inflammatory pericarditis is crucial, with the latter often presenting late.

Implications:

  • The optimal dosage and duration for NSAID or aspirin use in pericardial involvement remain uncodified.
  • Surgical drainage indications should prioritize hemodynamic impact.
  • NSAIDs are favored for managing inflammatory pericarditis post-meningococcal meningitis.

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