Septic Shock Caused by Waterhouse-Friderichsen Syndrome Caused by Neisseria meningitidis

Abstract

Background: Neisseria meningitidis is a rare but serious pathogen that leads to life-threatening septic shock. This infection can rapidly induce a critical condition. Case 1: A 48-year-old male was transferred to our department with septic shock resulting from an unknown cause. A few days after admission, Neisseria meningitides was detected in his blood culture. Because catecholamine or massive transfusion could not support his vital signs, plasma exchange was introduced. He recovered and was discharged on post-admission day 96 without extremity amputation. Case 2: A 42-year-old male presented with sudden-onset whole-body cyanosis and shock. Although he was treated with several medications, he died on post-admission day two. Neisseria meningitidis was detected in his blood culture. Conclusion: Prompt recognition and rapid therapy, including plasma exchange, might have the potential to treat patients with this infection.