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Primary meningococcal pericarditis in a pregnant woman
International Journal of Cardiology
|June 1, 1986
Abstract:
Pericardial effusion is an unusual complication of meningitis due to Neisseria meningitidis. Primary meningococcal pericarditis without signs of meningitis is rare. Only 18 cases have been described in the literature. The first case was reported in 1939 and the others since 1971. We report a case of primary meningococcal pericarditis in a pregnant woman. Improvement followed prompt antibiotic therapy. Fetal death necessitated abortion by curettage.
Insights
Primary meningococcal pericarditis, a rare condition without meningitis, is presented in a pregnant woman. Prompt antibiotic treatment led to improvement, but fetal death occurred, necessitating abortion.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Pericardial effusion is a rare complication of meningitis caused by Neisseria meningitidis.
- Primary meningococcal pericarditis, without concurrent meningitis symptoms, is exceptionally uncommon, with only 18 cases documented.
- The incidence of this condition has been sporadically reported since 1939, with a slight increase noted since 1971.
Observation:
- A case of primary meningococcal pericarditis occurred in a pregnant woman.
- The patient presented with symptoms indicative of pericarditis but no overt signs of meningitis.
- The pregnancy was complicated by the condition.
Findings:
- Prompt antibiotic therapy resulted in clinical improvement of the pericarditis.
- Despite treatment, the fetus did not survive.
- The pregnancy was terminated via curettage due to fetal demise.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering Neisseria meningitidis as a cause of pericarditis, even in the absence of meningitis.
- Early diagnosis and antibiotic intervention are crucial for managing meningococcal pericarditis.
- The case underscores the potential risks to pregnancy associated with invasive meningococcal disease.