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12:18
Subcutaneous Infection of Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA)
Published on: February 9, 2011
Cryptococcal meningitis in pediatric systemic lupus erythematosus.
1Department of Pediatrics, Veterans General Hospital, Taichung, No. 160, Sec 3, Chung-kang Rd., Taichung 407, Taiwan.
Mycoses
|July 23, 2003
Summary
Cryptococcal meningitis is a rare but serious complication in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Early diagnosis and treatment with antifungal medications can lead to a positive outcome, preventing long-term neurological issues.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Rheumatology
- Neurology
Background:
- Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is an autoimmune disease that can predispose patients to opportunistic infections.
- Cryptococcal meningitis, caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, is a rare but life-threatening complication in immunocompromised individuals, including those with SLE.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old female with SLE on high-dose prednisolone presented with fever, vomiting, and headache.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis revealed a cryptococcal antigen titer of 1:128 and culture-positive Cryptococcus neoformans.
Findings:
- The patient was treated with amphotericin B deoxycholate and fluconazole for six weeks.
- Suppressive fluconazole therapy was continued for 34 months, resulting in no relapse or neurological sequelae during a 20-month follow-up period.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of prompt diagnosis and aggressive antifungal treatment for cryptococcal meningitis in SLE patients.
- Effective management can significantly improve patient prognosis and prevent long-term neurological complications.
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