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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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[Chronic meningococcemia: 3 cases in the immunocompetent child]

E Grouteau1, S Chaminade, C Karsenty

  • 1Service de médecine infantile A, infectiologie, rhumatologie et neurologie pédiatriques, CHU Purpan, Toulouse, France.

Archives De Pediatrie : Organe Officiel De La Societe Francaise De Pediatrie
|December 16, 1998
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Chronic meningococcemia, a rare meningococcal disease manifestation, presents diagnostic challenges. Early consideration in children with recurrent fever and joint issues, even with negative blood cultures, is crucial for effective antibiotic treatment.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric infectious diseases
  • Bacteriology
  • Clinical microbiology

Context:

  • Chronic meningococcemia is an uncommon extra-meningeal manifestation of Neisseria meningitidis infection.
  • Diagnosis can be challenging due to the low sensitivity of standard blood cultures.
  • This condition requires specific consideration in pediatric cases presenting with prolonged or recurrent symptoms.

Purpose:

  • To highlight the diagnostic difficulties and clinical features of chronic meningococcemia in immunocompetent children.
  • To emphasize the importance of considering this diagnosis despite negative blood cultures.
  • To underscore the effectiveness of prompt antimicrobial therapy.

Summary:

  • Presents three cases of immunocompetent children diagnosed with chronic meningococcemia.
  • Clinical presentation included recurrent fever, joint inflammation, and petechial maculopapular rash.
  • Diagnostic methods varied, including throat cultures, antigen detection, and delayed positive blood cultures.

Impact:

  • Suggests that chronic meningococcemia should be suspected in children with prolonged fever and associated cutaneous and joint symptoms, even with negative blood cultures.
  • Highlights the dramatic and curative response to standard antimeningococcal antibiotics.
  • Warns of potential complications, including metastatic infection, if treatment is delayed.

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