Meningococcal Haemorrhagic Adrenalitis is a medical term that refers to a rare condition characterized by severe inflammation and bleeding in the adrenal glands, caused by infection with the bacteria Neisseria meningitidis, commonly known as meningococcus. This bacterium is primarily associated with meningitis, an infection that affects the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
The condition typically occurs as a complication of meningococcal meningitis and represents a severe form of adrenal gland dysfunction. The adrenal glands are small, triangular-shaped glands located on top of the kidneys and play a crucial role in producing hormones that regulate various bodily functions, including blood pressure, metabolism, and the body's stress response.
In cases of Meningococcal Haemorrhagic Adrenalitis, the bacteria release toxins into the bloodstream, leading to widespread inflammation and damage to the blood vessels supplying the adrenal glands. This damage causes hemorrhages, or bleeding, within the glandular tissue, disrupting its normal function.
Symptoms of this condition may include sudden onset of fever, severe abdominal or flank pain, fatigue, dehydration, low blood pressure, and organ failure. Prompt medical intervention is necessary, as Meningococcal Haemorrhagic Adrenalitis can be life-threatening if left untreated.
Treatment typically involves hospitalization, intravenous antibiotics to target the bacterial infection, and supportive care to stabilize blood pressure and manage complications. In some cases, surgical intervention may be required to remove hemorrhages or affected adrenal glands.
Overall, Meningococcal Haemorrhagic Adrenalitis is a rare and severe condition associated with meningococcal infection, characterized by inflammation and bleeding in the adrenal glands, requiring immediate medical attention.
