Infection: Neisseria Meningitidis Flashcards Preview

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Flashcards in Infection: Neisseria Meningitidis Deck (6)
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1
Q

What is the classification of neisseria meningitidis?

A

Gram negative diplococci

2
Q

What infections does neisseria meningitidis cause?

A

Causes meningitis in children and young adults

Sepsis

3
Q

What is the mode of transmission of neisseria meningitidis?

A

Spread through salivary and respiratory secretions: coughing, sneezing, kissing, chewing on toys

4
Q

Where is neisseria meningitidis found?

A

Carried in the nasopharynx by 10% of adults - unknown why it causes disease in some individuals

5
Q

What are some of the virulence factors?

A

It sticks to the cell using pili and surface exposed proteins Opa and Opc
Has a polysaccharide capsule which prevents phagocytosis

6
Q

What is the treatment for neisseria meningitidis infection?

A

IMMEDIATE treatment with cephalosporin antibiotic eg cefotaxamine
There is also a meningococcal type C vaccine

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