What is the pathophysiology of meningococcemia?
The fundamental pathologic change in meningococcemia is widespread vascular injury characterized by endothelial necrosis, intraluminal thrombosis, and perivascular hemorrhage. Endotoxin, cytokines, and free radicals damage the vascular endothelium, producing platelet deposition and vasculitis.
How is meningococcal infections caused?
Meningococcal disease is caused by strains of the bacterium called Neisseria meningitidis . It is transmitted through close and prolonged contact with mucus from an infected person. The subtypes are given different letters of the alphabet.
What are the leading mechanism of meningococcal shock?
The other specific clinical feature of meningococcal infection is the ability of the bacteria to multiply rapidly in the bloodstream and to be responsible for one of the most severe forms of septic shock observed, associating extensive thrombosis, vascular leakage, and cardiovascular failure (i.e., the purpura …
How does meningococcal infection cause septic shock?
Doctors call septicemia (a bloodstream infection) caused by Neisseria meningitidis meningococcal septicemia or meningococcemia. When someone has meningococcal septicemia, the bacteria enter the bloodstream and multiply, damaging the walls of the blood vessels. This causes bleeding into the skin and organs.
What is the treatment for meningococcal disease?
Doctors treat meningococcal disease with a number of antibiotics. It is important that treatment start as soon as possible. If a doctor suspects meningococcal disease, they will give the patient antibiotics right away. Antibiotics help reduce the risk of dying.
What is the symptoms of meningococcemia?
Signs & Symptoms Meningococcemia is characterized by sudden intense headache, nausea, fever, vomiting, and skin rash. The affected individual may first complain of an upper respiratory infection. Chills may develop, then skin rash on the arms or legs and the trunk. Diarrhea may also be present.
What is the difference between meningitis and meningococcal?
What is the difference between meningococcal disease and meningitis? While meningococcal disease and meningitis are related, they are not the same thing. Meningitis refers to an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord.
What is the difference between meningitis and meningococcal sepsis?
Bacterial meningitis occurs when bacteria infect the lining of the brain (the meninges) and the spinal cord. Meningococcal septicaemia – or blood poisoning – occurs when the bacteria in the blood multiply uncontrollably.
