Diagnosis: Meningococcal septicaemia
Description: Extensive fingertip gangrene and necrosis
Morphology: Purpura
Site: Fingertips
Sex: M
Age: 14
Type: Clinical
Submitted By: Ian McColl
Differential DiagnosisHistory: Meningococcal septicaemia usually presents with the sudden onset of fever ,headache and purpura.The purpura can transform into necrosis and infarction and gangrene with incredible rapidity if the meningococcal infection is not treated quickly enough..Ceftriaxone or IV Penicillin G should be given immediately the condition is suspected.