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Cryptococcosis presenting as upper limb cellulitis and ulceration: a case series
Haady Fallah1, Alan Watson, Christopher J A Henderson
1Department of Dermatology, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Sydney, Australia. haady@mail.com
The Australasian Journal of Dermatology
|November 11, 2011
Summary
Four immunosuppressed patients developed cryptococcosis, a fungal infection, presenting as upper limb skin conditions. Skin biopsy is crucial for diagnosing this infection in immunocompromised individuals with atypical cellulitis unresponsive to antibiotics.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Dermatology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection often affecting immunocompromised individuals.
- Prednisolone therapy is a common risk factor for opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- Four cases of cryptococcosis presenting with upper limb cellulitis or ulceration were observed.
- Three patients were on long-term prednisolone treatment.
- The skin lesions were atypical and did not respond to standard antibacterial treatments.
Findings:
- Diagnosis was confirmed via skin biopsy in all four cases.
- Only one patient showed signs of disseminated cryptococcosis.
- Skin biopsy is vital for diagnosing cryptococcosis in specific clinical scenarios.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering fungal infections like cryptococcosis in immunosuppressed patients with unusual skin manifestations.
- Emphasizes the diagnostic value of skin biopsy for atypical cellulitis in immunocompromised individuals.
- Suggests a need for increased awareness among clinicians regarding non-standard presentations of cryptococcosis.
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