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Anterior uveitis and meningococcemia: a case report

M B Gorroño-Echebarria1, J Guzman-Blazquez, M A Teus-Guezala

  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, Hospital Universitario Principe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Spain. mbgech@yahoo.es

Ocular Immunology and Inflammation
|June 13, 2006
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

This case report highlights a potential link between meningococcal septicemia and anterior uveitis. Prompt ophthalmologic evaluation is crucial for patients presenting with red eye during meningococcal disease.

Area of Science:

  • Ophthalmology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Meningococcemia, a severe bloodstream infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis, can lead to various systemic and ocular complications.
  • Anterior uveitis, inflammation of the iris and ciliary body, presents with ocular pain and visual disturbances.

Observation:

  • A 38-year-old female patient presented with meningococcal septicemia due to Neisseria meningitidis type B.
  • During hospitalization, she developed acute left eye pain, characterized by anterior chamber inflammatory cells, fibrinous exudate, and posterior synechiae.

Findings:

  • The patient was diagnosed with anterior uveitis secondary to meningococcemia.
  • Ocular inflammation resolved effectively with a treatment regimen of topical corticosteroids and mydriatics.

Implications:

  • This case suggests a possible association between meningococcal septicemia and the development of anterior uveitis.
  • Clinicians should consider a thorough ophthalmologic examination in patients with meningococcemia who develop red eye symptoms.

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