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Primary cutaneous cryptococcosis in an HIV-negative patient
M Bellosta1, M R Gaviglio, M Mosconi
1Dipartimento di Patologia Umana ed Ereditaria, Clinica Dermatologica, IRCCS Policlinico S. Matteo/Università di Pavia, Piazzale Golgi, 2, 27100 Pavia, Italy.
European Journal of Dermatology : EJD
|April 22, 1999
Summary
This case study details primary cutaneous cryptococcosis in an HIV-negative individual presenting with forearm lesions. Fluconazole treatment showed significant improvement, though the patient was lost to follow-up.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
Background:
- Primary cutaneous cryptococcosis is a rare fungal infection.
- It typically affects immunocompromised individuals, but can occur in those who are HIV-negative.
Observation:
- A case of primary cutaneous cryptococcosis in an HIV-negative patient is presented.
- The patient exhibited painless, ulcerated lesions on the right forearm over 45 days.
- Histological examination of a skin biopsy revealed Cryptococci within an acute inflammatory infiltrate.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed through clinical appearance, serological, and cultural examinations.
- Treatment with fluconazole (400 mg/day, then 200 mg/day maintenance) led to remarkable improvement in cutaneous lesions within one month.
- Periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining confirmed the presence of Cryptococci.
Implications:
- This case highlights that primary cutaneous cryptococcosis can occur in HIV-negative individuals.
- Early diagnosis and treatment with fluconazole are effective for cutaneous cryptococcosis.
- The importance of consistent follow-up for complete management of fungal infections is emphasized.