Primary meningococcal conjunctivitis in an adult

Abstract

Purpose: To describe a case of primary meningococcal conjunctivitis mimicking epidemic keratoconjunctivitis.

Methods: Review of a case history and current literature.

Results: A 28-year-old man presented with 5 days of a bilateral follicular conjunctivitis and subepithelial corneal infiltrates. Initial diagnosis of adenoviral conjunctivitis was made. Initial Gram stain of conjunctival exudates was negative. Cultures grew Neisseria meningitidis. Systemic antibiotics were instituted with adjunctive topical therapy. The conjunctivitis resolved with no evidence of systemic invasion.

Conclusions: The clinical picture of Neisseria meningitidis conjunctivitis can overlap with other infectious organisms including adenovirus. Early diagnosis and systemic antibiotic therapy are critical to prevent bacteremic spread of infection.