Late presentation of subtotal C6 deficiency in a patient with recurrent Neisseria meningitides infections

The complement system is important in fighting meningococcal disease. Recurrent meningococcal infections are a significant feature of terminal complement deficiency.1 The terminal complement system produces a membrane attack complex (MAC), which creates pores in bacteria, leading to lysis of microorganisms. Most invasive meningococcal infections are caused by Neisseria serotypes A, B, C, W-135, and Y, all of which are targeted with commercially available vaccines. Infections with less common serotypes are seen in patients with terminal complement deficiencies.
Source: Annals of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Source Type: research