Work

A rare presentation of disseminated gonococcal infection with pleuritis and pericarditis: a case report and comprehensive review

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Gonorrhoea is an infection caused by Neisseria gonorrhoeae. It is considered a significant public health problem. Asymptomatic infections are common, especially in women, and can lead to systemic dissemination. CASE PRESENTATION: We discuss a unique case of a 48-year old woman presenting with disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) complicated by pleural and pericardial effusions. Microbiological confirmation was obtained by N. gonorrhoeae polymerase chain reaction on pleural fluid. The patient was successfully treated with intravenous ceftriaxone and pleural drainage. We provide a comprehensive review of the literature on gonococcal pleuritis and pericarditis. Both are rare complications of (DGI), but the combination has never been described in literature. CONCLUSION: This case highlights the importance of early recognition and treatment of gonorrhoea and DGI to prevent severe complications. CLINICAL TRIAL: Not applicable.

Source: BMC Infectious Diseases

DOI: 10.1186/s12879-026-12846-1

Authors: Reon Togo, Joyce Vandersnickt, Simone van der Sar-van der Brugge, Janneke S. Hoogstad-van Evert, Wouter van den Bijllaardt, Peter van Wijngaarden

Institution: Amphia Ziekenhuis

Language: English

Topic: Reproductive tract infections research

Subfield: Microbiology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,090