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Meningitis caused by Rhodotorula rubra in an human immunodeficiency virus infected patient

K Thakur1, G Singh, S Agarwal

  • 1Department of Microbiology, Indira Gandhi Medical College, Shimla - 171 001, Himachal Pradesh, India.

Indian Journal of Medical Microbiology
|June 22, 2007
PubMed

Insights

This case highlights a rare instance of Rhodotorula rubra meningitis in an HIV-infected patient. Misdiagnosis occurred due to a false-positive cryptococcal antigen test, underscoring diagnostic challenges.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Clinical Microbiology

Background:

  • Rhodotorula spp. are opportunistic fungi, typically causing superficial infections.
  • Systemic Rhodotorula infections are uncommon, particularly meningitis in human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) patients.

Observation:

  • A case of meningitis in an HIV-infected patient is presented.
  • Initial diagnosis suggested cryptococcal meningitis based on India ink, Gram stain, and latex agglutination test (LAT).

Findings:

  • Cerebrospinal fluid culture confirmed Rhodotorula rubra as the causative agent.
  • The latex agglutination test for cryptococcal antigen yielded a false-positive result.

Implications:

  • This case emphasizes the importance of fungal culture for definitive diagnosis in suspected meningitis.
  • Rhodotorula meningitis can mimic cryptococcal meningitis, posing diagnostic challenges in immunocompromised individuals.
  • Accurate identification is crucial for appropriate antifungal therapy and patient management.

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