Disseminated cryptococcal lymphadenitis with negative latex agglutination test.

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Mycology
• Immunology

Background:

• Disseminated cryptococcal infections are typically observed in immunocompromised individuals.
• Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic fungal pathogen.
• Lymphadenitis is an inflammation of lymph nodes.

Observation:

• An immunocompetent patient presented with fever and lymphadenopathy.
• Initial diagnostic tests, including latex agglutination for serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), were negative.
• Lymph node biopsy confirmed the presence of Cryptococcus neoformans.

Findings:

• The patient was diagnosed with disseminated cryptococcal lymphadenitis.
• Treatment involved initial therapy with amphotericin B followed by maintenance therapy with itraconazole.
• Two-year follow-up showed gradual resolution of lymphadenopathy and absence of symptoms.

Implications:

• This case highlights the possibility of disseminated cryptococcosis in immunocompetent hosts.
• It underscores the importance of lymph node biopsy for diagnosis when initial tests are negative.
• Effective treatment strategies can lead to favorable outcomes even in unusual presentations.