N. Meningitidis Flashcards
1
Q
Gram stain result:
A
Gram negative
2
Q
May commonly cause?
A
Meningitis, meningococcemia (form of life threatening septic shock)
3
Q
Where in the body may NM be found non-pathologically?
A
Nasopharynx
4
Q
Describe the role of lipopolysaccharide in NM
A
Endotoxin, responsible for septic shock and haemorrhage due to the destruction of RBCs
5
Q
List virulence factors for NM
A
LPS
Polysaccharide capsule (prevents phagocytosis)
Fimbriae (mediates attachment to nasopharynx epithelia)
Produces IgA protease
6
Q
How may it be diagnosed?
A
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)- gram negative diplococci raises suspicions, PCR may confirm
7
Q
What shape is NM?
A
Diplococci
