Pathogenesis (development of disease)
Meningococcal sepsis occurs in approximately one percent of all meningococcal infections caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis (meningococci of types A, B, C, Y, and W). The bacterium releases endotoxins (decay products of bacteria) during its decay, which then lead to the septic course (“poisoning”). Transmission occurs from person to person by droplet infection, i.e., even during relatively distant contacts (such as coughing in crowds or in conversation) or kissing.
In 10-20% of those affected, Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome occurs as a complication of meningococcal meningitis, which is associated with acute adrenal insufficiency (failure of the adrenal glands) due to massive bacterial infections and consumption coagulopathy (a life-threatening condition in which clotting factors are depleted due to a strong blood clotting process, resulting in a severe bleeding tendency).
Etiology (causes)
Infectious and parasitic diseases (A00-B99).
- Infection with the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis.
Risk factors that favor meningococcal infection can be found under the sub-topic “Prevention”.
