Meningococcemia

Meningococcemia is septicemia caused by N. meningitidis, mainly presenting as cutaneous purpura. Pathologically there is endothelial damage, vasculitis, thrombosis, and perivascular hemorrhage. Nm is a Gram-negative Neisseria dwelling in the nasopharynx, transmitted by droplets, mostly in children under 10, with winter/spring peak.

Common Symptoms

Vesicle; papulomacular rash; nodule; pustule; ecchymosis; septicemia; bacteremia; meningitis

Causes and Pathogenesis

(1) Etiology: N. meningitidis (Neisseria, Gram-negative) dwells in the nasopharynx, transmitted by droplets, mostly in children <10, with winter/spring peak. (2) Pathogenesis: Nm invades the bloodstream causing septicemia with purpura; pathology shows endothelial damage, vasculitis, thrombosis, perivascular and focal cutaneous/subcutaneous/mucosal/serosal hemorrhage.

Treatment

Drug therapy, rehabilitation

Preventive Measures

1. Health education; early treatment/isolation; vaccination and chemoprophylaxis. 2. Skin hygiene; exercise. 3. Treat skin diseases promptly; avoid scratching. 4. Do not share hats/towels/basins; isolate patients; strictly disinfect or burn dressings; no tap water on lesions. 5. Avoid alcohol/spicy food; eat lightly.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Hematology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.