Transmission electron micrograph of Neisseria meningitidis,a spherical bacterium which causes meningitis in humans. As here,the bacteria are typically seen in pairs; both members of this pair are beginning to divide. The white area within the upper bacterium is the nuclear region. Meningitis is an inflammation of the meninges,the membranes enclosing the brain and spinal cord. Infection by N. meningitidis is one of several causes. Symptoms include intense headache,fever,loss of appetite,intolerance of light & sound,muscle rigidity and,in severe cases,convulsions,vomiting & delirium leading to death. Magnification: x108,000 at 8x10 inch size |