Molecular testing for Neisseria meningitidis is used for rapid laboratory documentation of meningococcal infections.
More information
Neisseria meningitidis is a non-mobile, aerobic, Gram-negative microbe belonging to the Neisseriaceae family and is a causative agent of meningitis as well as other meningococcal diseases. There are 13 Neisseria meningitidis serotypes and their genome has been completely identified, is approximately 2.2 Mbp (millions of base pairs) in size, and is organized as a single, circular chromosome.
Neisseria meningitidis is found as part of normal flora on the mucosal surfaces of the airway (nasopharynx) and can be transmitted between hosts with infected saliva or with droplets. Certain proteins facilitate the attachment of the microbe to the host cell membrane, allowing the bacterium to grow using nutrients, amino acids, and iron from the cell. Iron is taken up from the heme of the blood's hemoglobin, and because of this, the areas of infection often show an accumulation of blood cells. When Neisseria meningitidis enters the host's bloodstream, it can gain access to the meninges of the brain, causing inflammation (meningitis). A polysaccharide capsule containing various surface proteins allows the bacterium to evade phagocytosis by the host's immune system. Another virulence factor is the production of lipopolysaccharide endotoxin, which increases during the bacterial growth phase.
The infection usually starts with symptoms including fatigue, fever, and headaches, but quickly develops into a coma and is fatal in approximately 10% of cases.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
