Meningococcal Septicemia Revealing Multiple Myeloma: A Case Report

Abstract

Meningococcal infection is among the most devastating diseases. It is rarely seen in Japan. However, several environmental and host factors have been associated with increased risks of Neisseria meningitidis infection. We present a case of invasive N. meningitidis infection that revealed the presence of multiple myeloma. A 55-year-old Japanese man was admitted with fever and altered consciousness. He was sent to the intensive care unit for septic shock and disseminated intravascular coagulation. In addition to standard septic shock and multiple organ failure treatment, polymyxin-B immobilized column direct hemoperfusion was performed. His blood culture was positive for N. meningitidis. The patient gradually improved and was discharged on day 35. We evaluated the risk factors for the development of meningococcal infection. A laboratory examination showed that the patient was negative for human immunodeficiency virus antibody and had a normal total complement function. However, his serum immunoglobulin G level was high, and serum and urine protein electrophoresis detected a monoclonal gammopathy. A bone marrow examination led to the diagnosis of multiple myeloma. Because N. meningitidis bacteria spreads between individuals in close contact through the exchange of oral secretions, droplet precautions and antimicrobial chemoprophylaxis (ciprofloxacin, 500 mg) were implemented to prevent the spread of the meningococcal infection. Sporadic meningococcal infection warrants an evaluation for immunodeficiency and the prevention of secondary infection.