Related Experiment Videos
Mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis associated with meningococcal meningitis, C3 nephritic factor and persistently
S A Hulton1, R A Risdon, M J Dillon
1Department of Paediatric Nephrology, Institute of Child Health, London, UK.
Abstract:
We report two unusual cases in which mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis occurred in association with meningococcal infection. C3 nephritic factor, an autoantibody to alternate pathway C3 convertase, was present. Low serum complement C3 and C5 levels were also noted. The depressed complement levels, in conjunction with terminal complement complexes at the upper limit of normal, suggest activation of the early and late complement cascade. We suggest that children presenting with meningococcal infection should have a regular urine examination, as well as full complement measurements performed, in view of the association with hypocomplementaemic mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis. Similarly, prophylactic penicillin should be prescribed for patients with mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis and persistently low C5 levels to prevent meningococcal complications.
Insights
Meningococcal infections can trigger mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis in children. Early diagnosis via urine tests and complement measurements, alongside prophylactic penicillin for low C5 levels, is recommended.
Area of Science:
- Nephrology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis (MCG) is a rare kidney disease.
- Meningococcal infections can lead to severe systemic complications.
Observation:
- Two unusual cases of MCG associated with meningococcal infection are presented.
- Patients had C3 nephritic factor, low serum complement C3 and C5 levels.
- Terminal complement complexes were at the upper limit of normal.
Findings:
- Evidence suggests activation of both early and late complement cascades.
- Hypocomplementemic MCG is a potential complication of meningococcal infection.
Implications:
- Children with meningococcal infections require urine and complement level monitoring.
- Prophylactic penicillin is advised for MCG patients with low C5 to prevent meningococcal disease.