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Following in Real Time the Impact of Pneumococcal Virulence Factors in an Acute Mouse Pneumonia Model Using Bioluminescent Bacteria
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Published on: February 23, 2014

Bacteremic W-135 meningococcal pneumonia

D Witt, R N Olans

    The American Review of Respiratory Disease
    |February 1, 1982
    PubMed

    Insights

    Two cases of bacteremic meningococcal pneumonia caused by Neisseria meningitidis Group W-135 were reported. This serogroup is increasingly important in the US, highlighting diagnostic challenges.

    Area of Science:

    • Infectious Diseases
    • Bacteriology
    • Pulmonary Medicine

    Background:

    • Neisseria meningitidis is a significant bacterial pathogen.
    • Meningococcal disease typically presents as meningitis or sepsis.
    • Pneumonia is an less common manifestation of meningococcal infection.

    Observation:

    • Two civilian patients presented with bacteremic meningococcal pneumonia.
    • Neither patient had a preceding viral illness.
    • The causative agent was identified as Neisseria meningitidis, Group W-135.

    Findings:

    • Neisseria meningitidis Group W-135 was confirmed as the cause of pneumonia in both cases.
    • The cases were epidemiologically unrelated.
    • The study highlights the diagnostic difficulties associated with meningococcal pneumonia.

    Implications:

    • Neisseria meningitidis Group W-135 is an emerging cause of invasive disease in the US.
    • Increased awareness of meningococcal pneumonia is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
    • Further research into the clinical spectrum and epidemiology of meningococcal infections is warranted.

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