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07:06
Fecal Microbiota Transplantation via Colonoscopy for Recurrent C. difficile Infection
Published on: December 8, 2014
[A case of colonic cryptococcosis]
Jae Chun Song1, Sang Kyum Kim, Eak Seong Kim
1Departments of Internal Medicine, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
The Korean Journal of Gastroenterology = Taehan Sohwagi Hakhoe Chi
|December 17, 2008
Summary
This study reports a rare case of colonic cryptococcosis in an apparently healthy individual. Treatment with amphotericin B and fluconazole led to near-complete resolution of the colonic lesion.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
Background:
- Colonic cryptococcosis is a rare fungal infection, typically occurring in immunocompromised individuals.
- Opportunistic fungal infections in the gastrointestinal tract are uncommon, especially in immunocompetent hosts.
Observation:
- A 27-year-old immunocompetent woman presented with melena and an ascending colon mass.
- Initial CT scan and colonoscopy revealed a large, ulcerofungating mass obstructing the colon lumen.
- Pathological diagnosis confirmed colonic cryptococcosis via colonoscopic biopsy with positive PAS stain.
Findings:
- The patient received intravenous amphotericin B followed by oral fluconazole.
- Follow-up imaging and colonoscopy demonstrated significant reduction in the colonic mass.
- Near-complete resolution of the lesion was observed after seven months of treatment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the possibility of colonic cryptococcosis in immunocompetent individuals, challenging typical disease presentation.
- Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for successful management and resolution of gastrointestinal cryptococcosis.
- Further research is warranted to understand the pathogenesis and risk factors for cryptococcosis in seemingly healthy individuals.
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