Fulminant meningococcal supraglotittis in an immunosuppressed patient

Acute bacterial supraglotittis in adults is a distinct although rare condition that differs aetiologically and clinically from the classic paediatric form of the disease. Only a handful of cases of supraglotittis produced by Neisseria meningitidis have been described in the literature.

Here, we present the first description, to the best of our knowledge, of meningococcal supraglotittis in an immunosuppressed patient, with unique features of rapidly progressive symptoms, septic shock and multiorgan compromise.

In view of the recent reports describing a growing incidence of this condition in adults, increasing awareness about its clinical features, natural history and potential complications is needed to enable early recognition and optimal management of emerging cases.