Neisseria elongata

Background

Microbiology

• A non-motile Gram-negative bacillus (rather than coccus) within the genus Neisseria
• Catalase-negative and superoxol-negative
• Part of the normal oropharyngeal flora

Clinical Manifestations

• Most case reports describe endocarditis, though it is rare
  • High rates of perivalvular abscess and valvular perforation
  • Mostly in young men with underlying valvular abnormalities
  • May be precipitated by dental work
• Even more rarely, osteomyelitis

Management

• Usually susceptible to amoxicillin, gentamicin, and ciprofloxacin
• May have reduced susceptibility to ceftriaxone