Fatal case of co-infection with dengue virus and Neisseria meningitidis during a dengue epidemic in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

INTRODUCTION: Dengue and meningococcal disease are caused by two different agents: a flavivirus and a Gram-negative bacterium, respectively. The first symptoms of both diseases can be indistinct and a rapid and accurate diagnosis is crucial, considering that both diseases are associated with high morbidity and mortality, representing a major public-health problem in Brazil. CASE PRESENTATION: We report a fatal case of co-infection of dengue virus (DENV) and Neisseria meningitidis in a 54-year-old patient. The serum tested positive for DENV NS1 antigen, and N. meningitidis serogroup C was detected by nspA-PCR. Following the initial positive result for DENV infection, rRT-PCRwas performed and DENV-4 was confirmed. CONCLUSION: Our report highlights the importance of accurate differential diagnosis during periods of high circulation of DENV, in order to provide adequate management and an improved outcome.