Criptococosis cutánea primaria en paciente inmunocompetente.

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Mycology
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Cutaneous cryptococcosis is typically seen in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
• Rare cases occur in immunocompetent individuals, often mimicking other skin conditions, leading to diagnostic delays.

Observation:

• A 79-year-old male patient with multiple comorbidities presented with painful, non-responsive hand ulcers.
• The lesions on his right hand did not improve with topical treatments.

Findings:

• Histopathological and mycological studies confirmed a diagnosis of primary cutaneous cryptococcosis.
• The patient achieved remission of lesions after a six-month course of fluconazole therapy.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of considering cryptococcosis in immunocompetent patients with atypical dermatological presentations.
• Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal treatment, such as fluconazole, are crucial for successful management of primary cutaneous cryptococcosis.