Recurrent meningococcal meningitis with absence of the sixth component of complement: an evaluation of underlying immunologic mechanisms.

Abstract

A 51/2-year-old black girl with recurrent meningococcal meningitis and absence of the sixth component of complement (C6) is reported. To explore the pathogenesis of recurrent neisserial infections in C6 deficiency, a detailed analysis of her immune competence was conducted. Her serum had normal chemotactic, opsonic, alternative complement pathway, and specific antibody activity, but lacked complement-mediated bacteriolytic activity. In addition, her C6-deficient serum was indistinguishable from normal serum in a complement-dependent assay of phagocyte bactericidal activity. Absent bacteriolysis remains the only consistent defect associated with recurrent neisserial infections and absence of one of the late-acting complement components.

• Authors: L B Vogler, S L Newman, R M Stroud, R B Johnston Jr
• Journal: Pediatrics (Pediatrics) Vol. 64 Issue 4 Pg. 465-7 (Oct 1979) ISSN: 0031-4005 [Print] United States
• PMID: 492812 (Publication Type: Case Reports, Journal Article, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.)

Chemical References

• Complement C6

Topics

• Blood Bactericidal Activity
• Child, Preschool
• Complement C6 (deficiency)
• Female
• Hemolysis
• Humans
• Immunocompetence
• Meningitis, Meningococcal (genetics, immunology)
• Phagocytosis
• Recurrence