A mismatch amplification mutation assay for specific detection of ciprofloxacin-resistant Neisseria meningitidis.

Meningococcal chemoprophylaxis for people in close contact with patients with invasive meningococcal disease (IMD) is necessary for preventing the spread of Neisseria meningitidis. Ciprofloxacin (CIP) is commonly used to treat IMD. However, CIP-resistant N. meningitidis isolates have rapidly evolved worldwide; therefore, rapid and accurate detection of CIP-resistant N. meningitidis is essential. We developed a mismatch amplification mutation assay for identifying gyrA substitutions T91I and D95Y, associated with reduced CIP susceptibility, using two primer sets to detect these variants. Comparison with gyrA sequencing data showed complete congruency. This method enables reliable detection of CIP-resistant N. meningitidis, thus leading to efficient management and control of IMD infections.