IPLab:Lab 13:Meningococcemia

Images

• 

  In this gross photograph from the autopsy, note the areas of hemorrhage in the inguinal region.

• 

  This is a closer view of the inguinal region taken at autopsy. The areas of hemorrhage include purpura and petechiae (arrows).

• 

  In this gross photograph of the abdomen taken at the autopsy, there are petechial hemorrhages on the viscera (arrows).

• 

  This photomicrograph of the skin shows thrombi and fibrin clots in small vessels in the dermis. This is indicative of the endothelial damage caused by the Neisseria meningitidis endotoxin. This endotoxin-induced damage to the endothelium of small blood vessels throughout the body results in widespread petechiae and purpura.

• 

  This is a gross photograph of cross sections through the adrenal glands from this case. Both adrenal glands are markedly hemorrhagic.

• 

  This is a low-power photomicrograph of the adrenal gland from this case. Note that the entire gland is hemorrhagic.

• 

  This higher-power photomicrograph of the adrenal gland from this case provides an example of hemorrhagic necrosis.

• 

  This is a higher-power photomicrograph of a smear of cerebrospinal fluid taken at autopsy. Note the Gram-negative cocci in this smear, indicative of N. meningitidis.