A Case Report of Invasive Meningococcal Disease in an Adult without Identifiable Risk Factors

Meningitis is the most common manifestation of invasive meningococcal disease (IMD), occurring in approximately 50% of all cases. It is characterized by sudden onset, very rapid progression, and a high case fatality rate even with early and appropriate treatment. The purpose of this case report is to increase the awareness of health care professionals about the seriousness of IMD, so it should be considered in differential diagnosis with top priority in certain cases even in absence of risk factors, and emphasize that excellent outcome can be achieved by early employment of appropriate therapy. In this case report, we review an adult male, with no past medical history of significance, who presented with IMD, and was successfully treated in the intensive care unit with prompt initiation of IV antibiotics, ventilation support and multidisciplinary approach in management.