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Reversible hearing loss in a patient with cryptococcosis
J M Mayer1, X Chevalier, E Albert
1Department of Neurosurgery, Lariboisière, Paris, France.
Archives of Otolaryngology--Head & Neck Surgery
|August 1, 1990
Summary
Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis can present with hearing loss and neurological symptoms. Prompt antifungal treatment led to significant hearing improvement in a teenage patient.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis is a serious fungal infection of the brain and meninges.
- Initial symptoms can be varied, often including headache, fever, and neurological deficits.
- Neuro-otological and imaging findings are crucial for diagnosis and management.
Observation:
- A 16-year-old female presented with hearing loss, tremor, gait disturbance, and psychiatric issues.
- Neuroimaging revealed obstructive hydrocephalus.
- Neuro-otological examination indicated retrocochlear deafness and brainstem involvement.
Findings:
- Hearing loss was a rare presenting symptom of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis in this case.
- The patient experienced significant improvement in hearing following antifungal therapy.
- Diffuse brainstem involvement was noted on neuro-otological assessment.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering fungal meningitis in patients with unusual neurological and auditory presentations.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis can lead to favorable outcomes, including auditory recovery.
- Further research into the neuro-otological manifestations of fungal infections is warranted.