Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jul 31, 2026

Macrophage Cholesterol Depletion and Its Effect on the Phagocytosis of Cryptococcus neoformans
11:07

Macrophage Cholesterol Depletion and Its Effect on the Phagocytosis of Cryptococcus neoformans

Published on: December 19, 2014

[Brain cryptococcosis in HIV infection]

V V Vlasiuk, S E Khokhlov, D V Komarova

    Arkhiv Patologii
    |January 1, 1992
    PubMed

    Insights

    A patient with advanced Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection developed a widespread Cryptococcus neoformans infection, affecting the brain, lungs, and soft tissues, leading to death.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical Mycology
    • Infectious Diseases
    • Immunology

    Background:

    • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection, particularly at the Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) stage, severely compromises the immune system.
    • Opportunistic fungal infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in individuals with advanced HIV/AIDS.

    Observation:

    • A 30-year-old female with AIDS-stage HIV presented with generalized infection.
    • Fungal elements were identified as Cryptococcus neoformans in the brain, lungs, and soft tissue phlegmon.

    Findings:

    • The autopsy revealed meningoencephalitis and generalized Cryptococcus infection.
    • Cryptococcus neoformans was confirmed as the causative agent of the disseminated infection.

    Implications:

    • This case highlights the critical risk of disseminated Cryptococcus neoformans in immunocompromised individuals with advanced HIV.
    • Effective antifungal therapy and prompt diagnosis are crucial for managing opportunistic infections in HIV/AIDS patients.
    • Understanding the spectrum of Cryptococcus neoformans manifestations in AIDS is vital for clinical management and public health strategies.

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