All of the following are commonly involved in disseminated gonococcal infection except: September 2006
## **Core Concept**
Disseminated gonococcal infection (DGI) is a condition that occurs when *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* spreads from the initial site of infection, typically the urogenital tract, to other parts of the body through the bloodstream. This condition often affects individuals with certain complement deficiencies or other immune system impairments. DGI can involve multiple organ systems.
## **Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer, **D. Lung**, is not commonly involved in DGI. While *Neisseria gonorrhoeae* can cause various infections, DGI characteristically involves the skin, joints, and occasionally the heart and meninges. The lungs are not a typical site for gonococcal infection dissemination.
## **Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
- **Option A: Skin** - The skin is commonly involved in DGI, with patients often presenting with petechial or pustular skin lesions.
- **Option B: Joint** - Joint involvement, or gonococcal arthritis, is a well-known complication of DGI, leading to symptoms like pain, swelling, and decreased mobility.
- **Option C: Meninges** - The meninges can be involved in DGI, leading to gonococcal meningitis, although this is less common.
## **Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
A key clinical pearl is that DGI often presents with a triad of symptoms: skin lesions, tenosynovitis (inflammation of the tendon sheaths), and polyarthritis (inflammation of multiple joints). Early recognition and treatment are crucial to prevent long-term complications.
## **Correct Answer:** . Lung