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Bilateral renal cortical necrosis in meningococcal meningitis

C Kennedy1, S Khilji1, A Dorman2

  • 1Department of Nephrology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin 9, Ireland.

Case Reports in Nephrology
|February 15, 2014
PubMed

Insights

Bacterial meningitis can cause acute kidney injury. In rare cases, meningococcaemia leads to bilateral renal cortical necrosis and end-stage kidney disease, emphasizing the need for prompt multidisciplinary care.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Critical Care Medicine

Background:

  • Bacterial meningitis is a serious infection affecting the cerebrospinal fluid and meninges.
  • Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a known complication, often linked to hypotension and dehydration.
  • Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent severe outcomes.

Observation:

  • Meningococcaemia, a severe form of bacterial meningitis, can lead to profound hypotension and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC).
  • These severe complications can, in rare instances, result in bilateral renal cortical necrosis.
  • This condition significantly impairs the chances of renal recovery.

Findings:

  • This study presents two cases of meningococcaemia complicated by bilateral renal cortical necrosis, progressing to end-stage kidney disease.
  • A literature review on this rare complication is also included.
  • The findings highlight the devastating potential of meningococcaemia on renal function.

Implications:

  • Early and aggressive intervention by a multidisciplinary team is critical for managing meningococcaemia and its renal complications.
  • Recognizing the risk factors for AKI in meningitis is essential for timely management.
  • This case series underscores the importance of comprehensive care in preventing irreversible kidney damage.

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