Primary Meningococcal Conjunctivitis

Abstract

Primary meningococcal conjunctivitis is a rare disorder with clinical characteristics that are similar to those of gonococcal conjunctivitis. Although infections of the conjunctivas occur as unusual complications of meningococcemia, primary meningococcal conjunctivitis has been reported even less frequently. We recently observed a patient with primary meningococcal conjunctivitis. This case reinforces the need for bacteriological identification of the etiologic agent in acute conjunctivitis to avoid mismanagement. CASE REPORT A 9½-year-old white girl had a red eye of three hours' duration. While riding her bicycle, she noted increased tearing, followed quickly by yellow conjunctival discharge and minimal lid edema. There was no pain, photophobia, history of trauma, or known exposure to conjunctivitis.