16th February 2024

A 17-year-old boy presents with a 12-hour history of fever, headache, and neck stiffness

A 17-year-old boy presents with a 12-hour history of fever, headache, and neck stiffness. His full blood count showed leukocytosis with neutrophilia, and CRP was elevated (350 mg/l). A lumbar puncture revealed elevated opening pressures, with fluid analysis showing WBCs of 550 (90% neutrophils). Gram stain of CSF fluids showed Gram-negative diplococci. You are suspecting meningococcal meningitis. Further questioning revealed he had two previous similar episodes at 12 and 15.

What part of his immune system is likely to be impaired?

Select the SINGLE most appropriate option from the list below. Select ONE option only.