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A Double Whammy Pneumonia: The First Reported Case of Concurrent Neisseria meningitidis and SARS-CoV-2 Pneumonia
Michael Valdez1, Rupam Sharma1, Jaspreet Joshi1
1UCLA at Kern Medical Center, Bakersfield, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Meningococcal pneumonia (MP) is a rare manifestation of meningococcal disease. The MP was first described in 1907 when Neisseria meningitidis (NM) isolates were identified in sputum samples obtained from soldiers with pneumonia. Preceding and concurrent viral infections constitute a major risk for MP. During the 1918-1919 influenza pandemic, a significant increase in MP cases were reported in patients with preceding influenza infection. Despite the end of the last H1N1 influenza pandemic in 2010, seasonal influenza infections still pose a risk for simultaneous MP. History appears to be repeating itself with concomitant bacterial and viral coinfection amid the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Herein presented is a unique case of an elderly woman who presented with, to the best of our knowledge, the first reported case of possible concurrent SARS-CoV-2 and MP infections.
Insights
Meningococcal pneumonia (MP), a rare bacterial lung infection, can co-occur with viral illnesses. This case report details a possible concurrent SARS-CoV-2 and meningococcal pneumonia infection in an elderly patient.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Pulmonology
- Microbiology
Background:
- Meningococcal pneumonia (MP) is a rare but serious complication of Neisseria meningitidis (NM) infection.
- Viral infections, particularly influenza, are known risk factors for developing MP.
- Historical pandemics show a link between influenza and increased MP incidence.
Observation:
- A case of an elderly woman presenting with symptoms suggestive of concurrent infections is described.
- The patient's presentation indicated a possible co-infection with SARS-CoV-2 and Neisseria meningitidis.
- This represents a unique clinical scenario in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Findings:
- The study highlights the potential for Neisseria meningitidis to cause pneumonia concurrently with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
- This case underscores the risk of bacterial coinfections during viral respiratory pandemics.
- Identification of Neisseria meningitidis isolates in sputum samples confirmed bacterial pneumonia.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider bacterial pneumonia, including MP, in patients with SARS-CoV-2, especially the elderly.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of co-infections are crucial for improving patient outcomes.
- This case emphasizes the importance of vigilance for bacterial complications during viral outbreaks.
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