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Case Reports
. 2025 May 18;17(5):e84350.
doi: 10.7759/cureus.84350. eCollection 2025 May.

When Neisseria meningitidis Strikes an Immunocompetent Host and Purpura Fulminans Results

Andy Li  1 , Parima Saxena  2 , Aye M Thida  2 , Ekenedilichukwu N Nnadi  1 , Jordonna Brown  2
Affiliations
Case Reports

When Neisseria meningitidis Strikes an Immunocompetent Host and Purpura Fulminans Results

Andy Li et al. Cureus. .

Abstract

Purpura fulminans (PF) is a rapidly progressive, life-threatening condition marked by ecchymotic, tender, and symmetric skin lesions, often resulting from disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) secondary to infectious or non-infectious etiologies. PF usually occurs in immunocompromised hosts and is associated with a high mortality rate. Here, we highlight a case of an elderly immunocompetent woman with Neisseria meningitis-mediated DIC and subsequent PF. Her case underscores the importance of early intervention in managing this rare but deadly condition in order to ensure optimal survival outcomes. Early intervention for PF with DIC includes the timely administration of antibiotics, steroids, and anticoagulants, along with addressing the underlying consumptive coagulopathy.

Keywords: disseminated intravascular coagulation (dic); fulminans purpura; immuno-competent host; neisseria meningitidis; organ failure from sepsis.

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Conflict of interest statement

Human subjects: Consent for treatment and open access publication was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1. Purpura fulminans rash throughout admission. Panel A shows rash on presentation. Panel B shows progression of rash throughout ICU course.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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