Cryptococcosis in nonhuman immunodeficiency virus-infected children

Between 1991-2006, nine patients below age 18 years, with a microbiologic documentation of Cryptococcus neoformans infection and no evidence of human immunodeficiency virus infection, were identified and treated at Chang Gung Children's Hospital. All exhibited central nervous system involvement. Seven patients were female (age range, 9-16 years; mean age, 13.7 years). Five patients (56%) manifested underlying diseases and were receiving either steroid or immunosuppressant treatment at time of disease onset. Eight patients presented with meningitis. Headache, vomiting, and focal neurologic signs were the most common presentations. Protein and sugar levels in cerebrospinal fluid were within normal range in seven cases, whereas India ink smear and cryptococcal antigen testing were positive in 87% (7/8) and 78% (7/9) of patients, respectively. With prompt antifungal therapy, all survived, but one presented the sequel of blindness. Cryptococcosis is uncommon in the nonhuman immunodeficiency virus-infected pediatric population. Clinicians should take into account a diagnosis of central nervous system cryptococcosis when children present with prolonged headache, vomiting, and focal neurologic signs. Indian ink stain and cryptococcal antigen testing of cerebrospinal fluid should be performed.