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Isolation of Neisseria meningitidis from anogenital sites in adolescents: clinical implications
Abstract:
Neisseria meningitidis is being increasingly isolated from the urethra, cervix, and anal canal of sexually active individuals. We found a similar phenomenon in inner-city black and Hispanic adolescents. In 1981, cultures of 92 isolates of Neisseria were made from the anogenital region of sexually active adolescents; 81 (88.0%) were N. gonorrhoeae, 3 (3.3%) could not be speciated, and 8 (8.7%) were N. meningitidis. Since N. meningitidis has been associated with urethritis and pelvic inflammatory disease, it should be considered a pathogen when identified in the urethra or cervix and should be appropriately treated. The health implications of isolating N. meningitidis from the anal canal are less clear, although it has been rarely associated with proctitis. Neisseria isolates from anogenital sites cannot be assumed to be gonococci and, therefore, should be distinguished from N. meningitidis.
Insights
Neisseria meningitidis is increasingly found in the anogenital tracts of sexually active adolescents. This bacterium, often mistaken for Neisseria gonorrhoeae, requires identification and appropriate treatment when found in the urethra or cervix.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Public Health
- Adolescent Health
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis is increasingly isolated from the anogenital region of sexually active individuals.
- This phenomenon was observed in inner-city Black and Hispanic adolescents.
Observation:
- Cultures of 92 Neisseria isolates from the anogenital region of sexually active adolescents were analyzed in 1981.
- 81% were Neisseria gonorrhoeae, 3.3% were unidentifiable, and 8.7% were Neisseria meningitidis.
Findings:
- Neisseria meningitidis was identified in 8.7% of anogenital Neisseria isolates from adolescents.
- A significant proportion of Neisseria isolates from this demographic were not Neisseria gonorrhoeae.
Implications:
- Neisseria meningitidis should be considered a pathogen in urethral and cervical infections, necessitating appropriate treatment.
- Distinguishing Neisseria meningitidis from Neisseria gonorrhoeae is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of anogenital infections.