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Neisseria Meningitidis-Induced Septic Pericarditis Masquerading as Acute Coronary Syndrome
Mo'ath Bani Ali1, Emad Hakemi1, Firas Al Badarin1
1Cleveland Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
JACC. Case Reports
|July 25, 2025
Summary
Septic pericarditis caused by Neisseria meningitidis can mimic heart attacks. Early recognition and treatment are vital for patient recovery from this serious infection.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Septic pericarditis is a rare condition that can present with symptoms similar to acute coronary syndrome (ACS).
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial due to the potentially life-threatening nature of septic pericarditis.
Observation:
- A patient with diabetes and hypertension presented with chest pain and hypotension, initially suspected as ACS.
- Coronary angiography ruled out coronary artery disease, but the patient developed pericardial effusion and cardiac tamponade.
- Pericardial fluid analysis revealed Neisseria meningitidis infection.
Findings:
- Neisseria meningitidis can cause severe cardiac complications, including septic pericarditis.
- Hyperinvasive strains of N. meningitidis are associated with significant morbidity.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider infectious causes, such as N. meningitidis, in patients presenting with ACS-like symptoms.
- Multidisciplinary management and prompt treatment are essential for favorable outcomes in septic pericarditis.
- Increased awareness of N. meningitidis as a cause of septic pericarditis is critical for timely diagnosis.
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