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Scopulariopsis associated meningitis in adult Nigerian AIDS patient--a case report

C Nwabuisi1, A K Salami, N A Abdullahi

  • 1Department of Medicine, Faculty of Health Science, University of Ilorin, PMB 1515, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria.

West African Journal of Medicine
|March 11, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Opportunistic fungal meningitis caused by Scopulariopsis species is rare in HIV/AIDS patients. This case report highlights a unique instance in a Nigerian male, emphasizing the need for broader diagnostic considerations.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Case Reports

Background:

  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) predisposes individuals to opportunistic infections.
  • Filamentous fungi are increasingly recognized as potential pathogens in immunocompromised hosts.
  • Scopulariopsis species are typically associated with onychomycosis and skin infections, rarely causing invasive disease.

Observation:

  • A case of opportunistic filamentous fungal meningitis is presented.
  • The patient is a 38-year-old Nigerian male.
  • The causative agent identified was Scopulariopsis species.

Findings:

  • Scopulariopsis species identified as the cause of meningitis in an HIV/AIDS patient.
  • This represents a rare presentation of invasive fungal infection.
  • The case underscores the diverse spectrum of opportunistic pathogens in advanced HIV disease.

Implications:

  • Highlights the importance of considering rare fungal pathogens in the differential diagnosis of meningitis in HIV/AIDS patients.
  • Suggests a need for increased awareness and diagnostic vigilance for Scopulariopsis meningitis.
  • Contributes to the understanding of fungal infections in immunocompromised populations globally.

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