Pulmonary oedema in meningococcal meningitis

Two cases of meningococcal meningitis complicated by pulmonary oedema are described. The pulmonary arterial wedge pressure was raised in the one case studied. Profound sympathetic over-activity may be the cause of the pulmonary oedema occurring in this situation. If this is so, adrenergic blockade would appear to be a rational approach to therapy.