Dermatology Glossary

Meningococcal infection

Synonym:

Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome

Caused by Neisseria meningitidis, meningococcal infection is spread by droplet infection.
Early lesions are typically discreet pink macules and papules on any part of the body. Purpura follows rapidly in most cases. Extensive ecchymotic lesions develop, eventually with central full thickness necrotic ulceration.

Treatment:

• Meningococcal infection is a potentially fatal disease and aggressive treatment with Penicillin G in high doses is the treatment of choice.
• Rifampin for two days is recommended as prophylaxis for close family contacts.
• Close clinical surveillance of as many possible contacts is also indicated.

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