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[Two cases of cryptococcal meningitis revealed by an ischemic stroke]
A E Kouame-Assouan1, P Cowppli-Bony, E Aka-Anghui Diarra
1Service de neurologie, CHU de Cocody, BP V 13, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. ange_medic@yahoo.fr
Bulletin De La Societe De Pathologie Exotique (1990)
|April 4, 2007
Abstract:
The usual clinical expression of neuromeningeal cryptococcosis is a meningoencephalitis. We report two cases of neurocryptococcosis which have been revealed by an unusual clinical aspect: an ischemic stroke with a vasculitis mechanism. The two patients had a positive reaction for the HIV and we discussed the responsibility of the HIV or the Cryptococcus in the occurrence of the cerebral infarct.
Insights
Neuromeningeal cryptococcosis typically presents as meningoencephalitis. However, two HIV-positive patients experienced ischemic stroke due to vasculitis, highlighting an unusual presentation of this fungal infection.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Neuromeningeal cryptococcosis commonly manifests as meningoencephalitis.
- Cryptococcus is an opportunistic fungal pathogen.
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection predisposes individuals to opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- Two cases of neurocryptococcosis presented with ischemic stroke.
- The ischemic stroke was attributed to a vasculitis mechanism.
- Both patients tested positive for HIV.
Findings:
- Cerebral infarct occurred in HIV-positive individuals with neurocryptococcosis.
- Vasculitis was identified as the mechanism leading to ischemic stroke.
- The interplay between HIV and Cryptococcus in causing cerebral infarction was investigated.
Implications:
- This study expands the known clinical spectrum of neurocryptococcosis.
- Recognizing stroke as an unusual presentation is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the specific roles of HIV and Cryptococcus in stroke pathogenesis.
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