Meningococcemia in a Patient Coinfected with Hepatitis C Virus and HIV
Author Information
Author(s): Christopher G. Nelson, Mark A. Iler, Christopher W. Woods, John A. Bartlett, Vance G. Fowler, Jr.
Primary Institution: Duke University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Does coinfection with HCV and HIV increase susceptibility to meningococcal infection?
Conclusion
This case highlights that patients coinfected with HIV and HCV may be at increased risk for meningococcal infection due to hepatic dysfunction.
Supporting Evidence
- Hypocomplementemia may enhance susceptibility to meningococcal infection in patients with hepatic dysfunction.
- Coinfected patients have a higher progression to hepatic fibrosis and cirrhosis.
- Fewer than 50 cases of meningococcal infections in HIV-infected patients have been reported.
Takeaway
A woman with both HIV and hepatitis C got very sick from a type of bacteria that can cause meningitis, showing that having both infections can make you more vulnerable.
Methodology
Case report detailing the clinical presentation, laboratory findings, and treatment of a single patient.
Potential Biases
The patient's history of multiple infections may indicate other immunologic defects that could affect susceptibility.
Limitations
Only one case is reported, limiting the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
A 45-year-old woman with a history of injection drug use.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Confidence Interval
7.4-76.7
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
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