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Neisseria lactamica meningitis
American Journal of Diseases of Children (1960)
|February 1, 1976
Summary
Neisseria lactamica caused meningitis in an infant, initially misidentified as Neisseria meningitidis. Further testing confirmed the bacteria
Area of Science:
- Bacteriology
- Clinical Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Neisseria lactamica is a commensal bacterium.
- Neisseria meningitidis is a common cause of bacterial meningitis.
- Accurate identification of Neisseria species is crucial for appropriate treatment.
Observation:
- A 7-month-old infant presented with acute purulent meningitis.
- Bacteria were isolated from the infant's blood and cerebrospinal fluid.
- Initial identification suggested Neisseria meningitidis.
Findings:
- Biochemical testing revealed lactose fermentation and beta-D-galactosidase production.
- These characteristics confirmed the isolate as Neisseria lactamica.
- This represents a rare case of N. lactamica meningitis.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of comprehensive biochemical testing for accurate Neisseria species identification.
- Suggests N. lactamica, though typically commensal, can be an opportunistic pathogen.
- Underscores the need to consider less common pathogens in meningitis cases.