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Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W 135 disease in adults
Abstract:
Five adults had infection caused by Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W135. Their ages ranged from 19 to 74 years, and the spectrum of illness included meningitis, pneumonia, and acute peritonitis. Two patients had systemic lupus erythematosus and were receiving corticosteroids at the time of their infection. One patient died of fulminant meningococcemia. All isolates were sensitive to sulfonamides. The recent increase in the national incidence of N meningitidis serogroup W135 infections emphasizes the need for continuing surveillance and justifies its inclusion in a polyvalent meningococcal vaccine.
Insights
Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W135 infections can cause severe illness, including meningitis and pneumonia, in adults. Surveillance and inclusion in vaccines are crucial due to rising incidence.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
- Vaccinology
Background:
- Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W135 (MenW135) is an emerging cause of invasive meningococcal disease.
- Understanding the clinical spectrum and antimicrobial susceptibility of MenW135 infections is critical for public health.
Observation:
- Five adult cases of MenW135 infection presented with diverse clinical manifestations: meningitis, pneumonia, and acute peritonitis.
- Two patients had underlying systemic lupus erythematosus and were on corticosteroid therapy.
- One patient succumbed to fulminant meningococcemia, highlighting the potential severity.
Findings:
- All MenW135 isolates from these cases demonstrated sensitivity to sulfonamides.
- The study observed an increasing national incidence of MenW135 infections.
Implications:
- The findings underscore the importance of ongoing surveillance for Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W135.
- Inclusion of MenW135 in polyvalent meningococcal vaccines is warranted to prevent future outbreaks and disease burden.