Which of the following is a characteristic of meningococcal meningitis

Which of the following is a characteristic of meningococcal meningitis

Which of the following is a characteristic of meningococcal meningitis?

A. Gram-positive cocci in chains

B. CSF with lymphocytic predominance

C. Rash that does not blanch with pressure (petechiae)

D. Association with otitis media

E. Treatment with vancomycin alone

Answer: C

Explanation: Meningococcal meningitis is caused by Neisseria meningitidis (gram-negative diplococci). A characteristic feature is a petechial or purpuric rash that does not blanch with pressure, due to endotoxin-induced vascular damage. CSF shows neutrophilic predominance, and treatment includes ceftriaxone plus vancomycin (empirically).