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Cutaneous Cryptococcus laurentii infection in an immunocompetent child
Alejandro Molina-Leyva1, Jose C Ruiz-Carrascosa, Ana Leyva-Garcia
1Department of Dermatology, San Cecilio University Hospital, 18012, Granada, Spain.
Summary
This study details a rare case of skin infection caused by Cryptococcus laurentii in an 8-year-old child. Successful oral fluconazole treatment highlights a new possibility for managing this extremely rare fungal pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Cryptococcus laurentii is a rare fungal pathogen.
- Cutaneous cryptococcosis is uncommon, typically affecting immunocompromised individuals.
Observation:
- An 8-year-old immunocompetent child presented with a solitary forearm lesion.
- No source of infection or predisposing factors were identified.
Findings:
- The case represents primary cutaneous cryptococcosis caused by Cryptococcus laurentii.
- Literature review revealed only three prior cases, all in immunocompromised patients.
- This is the first reported instance of C. laurentii infection in an immunocompetent host.
Implications:
- Oral fluconazole demonstrated efficacy in treating cutaneous cryptococcosis.
- This case expands the known clinical spectrum of Cryptococcus laurentii infections.
- Highlights the importance of considering rare pathogens in pediatric dermatology.
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