[Disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent patient]

Area of Science:

• Medical Mycology
• Infectious Diseases
• Immunology

Background:

• Disseminated cryptococcosis is an opportunistic fungal infection caused by Cryptococcus neoformans.
• It typically affects individuals with compromised cellular immunity, often targeting the central nervous system.
• Skin and lungs are common extraneural sites of infection.

Observation:

• A case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an apparently immunocompetent patient is presented.
• The initial symptoms included multiple, progressively enlarging, purplish, umbilicated skin lesions on the face, groin, forearm, and leg.
• The patient also experienced weight loss and a general decline in health.

Findings:

• Diagnosis was confirmed by the presence of Cryptococcus in skin biopsy and cerebrospinal fluid samples.
• Standard tests for common immunosuppressive conditions were negative.
• Treatment with amphotericin B for 40 days was initiated.

Implications:

• This case highlights that disseminated cryptococcosis can occur in immunocompetent hosts.
• Cutaneous manifestations can serve as the primary clinical sign of the disease.
• Early recognition of skin lesions is crucial for timely diagnosis and management, even in the absence of known immunosuppression.