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Published on: February 27, 2018

Disseminated Cryptococcus neoformans: case report and review of the literature

Nisha C Patel1, Christopher Ewanowski, Agnieszka Kupiec-Banasikowska

  • 1Georgetown University Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.

Cutis
|September 15, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Cryptococcus neoformans, a fungal pathogen, can cause meningitis and skin infections. This case highlights a rare disseminated infection in a liver transplant recipient.

Area of Science:

  • Mycology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Transplantation Immunology

Background:

  • Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen known for causing meningitis by breaching the blood-brain barrier.
  • Its prevalence as an opportunistic pathogen has increased due to widespread immunosuppressive therapy.
  • Disseminated infections can manifest with cutaneous involvement.

Observation:

  • A rare case of disseminated Cryptococcus neoformans infection is presented.
  • The patient was a 52-year-old male who had undergone an orthotopic liver transplant.

Findings:

  • The case illustrates a rare presentation of disseminated fungal infection post-transplant.
  • The study reviews the literature on Cryptococcus neoformans, covering its associations, histological features, and therapeutic strategies.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the importance of vigilance for opportunistic infections in transplant recipients.
  • Understanding the diverse manifestations of Cryptococcus neoformans is crucial for timely diagnosis and management in immunocompromised individuals.
  • The review provides valuable insights for clinicians managing similar complex cases.

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