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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
Summary
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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