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Published on: July 14, 2020
Symptomatic Vaginal Infection by Neisseria meningitidis Resulting in Meningitis with Septic Shock
Ryan Offman1,2, Elissa Boggs1,2, Adam Gwizdala2,3
1Mercy Health-Muskegon, Department of Emergency Medicine, Muskegon, Michigan.
Abstract:
The most common infectious etiologies of vaginitis include Gardnerella bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, and trichomoniasis. A few case reports describe symptomatic infection with Neisseria (N) meningitidis, an organism with potential for causing systemic disease with a high rate of morbidity and mortality. We describe a patient who presented with fulminant meningitis secondary to symptomatic vaginitis in which N. meningitidis was cultured. Due to the potential for significant morbidity and mortality as demonstrated by this case report, knowledge of this entity may prompt physicians to aggressively treat patients with vaginal cultures that are positive for N. meningitidis.
Insights
Neisseria meningitidis can cause vaginitis, leading to severe meningitis. Early detection and aggressive treatment of vaginal N. meningitidis infections are crucial to prevent serious outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
Background:
- Vaginitis is commonly caused by bacterial vaginosis, candidiasis, and trichomoniasis.
- Symptomatic Neisseria meningitidis vaginitis is rare but associated with severe systemic disease.
Observation:
- A case report details a patient with fulminant meningitis.
- The meningitis was secondary to symptomatic vaginitis.
- N. meningitidis was identified in vaginal cultures.
Findings:
- This case highlights a rare but severe presentation of N. meningitidis vaginitis.
- The infection progressed to meningitis, demonstrating the organism's potential for systemic spread.
- Vaginal N. meningitidis infection carries a significant risk of morbidity and mortality.
Implications:
- Physicians should be aware of N. meningitidis as a potential cause of vaginitis.
- Prompt and aggressive treatment is recommended for patients with positive vaginal cultures for N. meningitidis.
- Early recognition may prevent severe systemic complications like meningitis.
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