Waterhouse-Friderichsen syndrome

Definition

A syndrome characterised by adrenal insufficiency due to bleeding into the adrenal glands (mostly bilateral but sometimes also unilateral) due to the severe infection, commonly caused by an infection with meningococcus (Neisseria meningitidis). However, it can also be caused by infections with other bacteria such as Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae or even due to some severe viral infections. This syndrome may present with fever, chills, vomiting, myalgia, or rash, with progression to disseminated intravascular coagulation. Transmission of the underlying infections is by direct contact or droplet transmission.

Inclusions

• meningococcal haemorrhagic adrenalitis

Index Terms