Meningococcemia

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Meningococcemia is an infection that occurs suddenly in the bloodstream that causes vasculitis (inflammation of the blood vessels). Meningococcemia is caused by the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis.

These bacteria only live in the upper respiratory tract. The bacteremia can live in the body for years without any visible signs. It is believed that some event triggers sudden aggressive behavior in the bacteria.

Meningococcemia is contagious. It is transmitted through respiratory droplets. Family members and others who are close to the infected individual are at risk for the disease. Because of the nature of the bacteria, meningococcemia occurs at higher rates in the winter and early spring, when people reside in close quarters.

It is important to recognize and treat meningococcemia at the earliest possible time.

There are an estimated 2,600 cases of meningococcemia in the United States each year. Meningococcemia can kill more rapidly than any other infectious disease.

What are the symptoms of meningococcemia?

Early symptoms:

  • Fever
  • Petechial (spotty purple or red) rash
  • Irritability
  • Anxiety.

Later symptoms:

  • Ill appearance
  • Changing levels of consciousness
  • Shock
  • Large areas of bleeding or blood clots under the skin.

It is important for you and your doctor to take these symptoms seriously. Irreversible shock and even death can occur within only a few short hours of the first appearance of symptoms.

How do you test for meningococcemia?

  • Complete blood count with differential
  • Blood cultures
  • Gram stain of positive culture
  • Skin biopsy and gram stain
  • Urinalysis
  • Clotting studies.

What are the treatments for meningococcemia?

It is of the utmost importance to diagnose meningococcemia at the earliest possible moment. The earlier it is diagnosed, the greater the chances are for a good recovery. After shock develops, chances of survival drop dramatically.

The treatments for meningococcemia are:

  • IV antibiotics to eliminate infection
  • If bleeding disorders develop, clotting factors or platelet replacement
  • Wound care for areas with blood clots
  • Respiratory isolation for at least 24 hours to prevent spreading the disease.                     

Seeking Help?

If you believe you or a loved one was the victim of a delayed diagnosis or treatment of meningococcemia, the attorneys at Goren, Goren & Harris, P.C. want to help. Since 1968, we have been winning compensation for our clients’ injuries. Our work in the area of medical malpractice has won us recognition as “Super Lawyers.” We have lectured to other attorneys and authored chapters in legal books. We are listed in Martindale-Hubbell’s directory of Preeminent Law Firms. If you or someone you know has suffered due to a delayed diagnosis of meningococcemia, contact us today for a free consultation.

 
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