A Cluster of Meningococcal Serogroup W135 Infections: A Case Series

Abstract

Neisseria meningitidis serogroup W135 is associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from mild localized infections to life-threatening systemic diseases. This report presents four cases of meningococcal infection in Qatar with varying presentations and complications. All patients were previously healthy, with no comorbidities, and had not received the meningococcal vaccine. All cases demonstrated elevated inflammatory markers, including C-reactive protein (CRP) and procalcitonin, and evidence of organ dysfunction, such as acute kidney injury, rhabdomyolysis, and myocarditis. Treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics (ceftriaxone and meropenem) and aggressive supportive care, including vasopressors, mechanical ventilation, and continuous renal replacement therapy, led to gradual improvement in all patients. These cases underscore the importance of early recognition, prompt antibiotic therapy, and close monitoring of prognostic indicators, such as thrombocytopenia, elevated D-dimer, and lactate levels, in managing meningococcal disease. The variability in clinical presentations highlights the need for heightened clinical suspicion and tailored management strategies to improve outcomes in this potentially fatal condition.