Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 23, 2026

Inducing Meningococcal Meningitis Serogroup C in Mice via Intracisternal Delivery
Published on: November 5, 2019
[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
Introduction:
There is little information on the frequency, physiopathology and management of extra-cerebral manifestations of N. meningitidis meningitis. Articular, pleural and pericardial involvement is occasionally reported with a symptomatology that can be delayed with regard to the initial diagnosis.
Observations:
In two patients in whom the diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis had been confirmed, the progression was towards a recurrent pericarditis up until the 4th month after the initial episode of infection in the first case and pericarditis with tamponade and surgical draining in the second. However, the final outcome was favourable for both patients following treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIs).
Comments:
The incidence of pericardial involvement is unknown. The distinction has to be made between purulent pericarditis, more frequent in children, and the inflammatory pericarditis that is often of late onset. The indication for surgical draining must be dominated by the clinical hemodynamic impact. The indication for NSAIs and/or acetyl-salicylic acid is not codified (doses, duration), but in the two cases reported here we would privilege NSAIs.
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.
Related Concept Videos
Myocarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Pericarditis II: Clinical Features and Diagnostic Tests
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Pericarditis I: Introduction
Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
Viral Meningitis
