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Disseminated Cryptococcosis in an Immunocompetent Child
Bhawna Bhutoria Jain1, Debdas Bose, Rajat Mondal
1Department of Pathology, Medical College, Kolkata, WEST BENGAL, INDIA.
Turk Patoloji Dergisi
|January 4, 2017
Summary
Disseminated cryptococcosis can occur in immunocompetent individuals, highlighting the need for careful diagnosis of granulomatous lymphadenitis. This case underscores the importance of considering fungal infections beyond tuberculosis, even in healthy patients.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
- Immunocompetent Host Research
Background:
- Disseminated cryptococcosis is typically associated with immunocompromised individuals.
- Granulomatous lymphadenitis requires a differential diagnosis that includes infectious and neoplastic causes.
- Cryptococcus species are fungi that can cause opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent host is presented.
- The patient initially presented with symptoms suggestive of disseminated tuberculosis.
- The patient later developed significant visual loss and characteristic skin lesions.
Findings:
- Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS) staining of lymph node biopsy sections was crucial for identifying fungal elements.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture confirmed the presence of Cryptococcus, establishing the diagnosis.
- Initial misdiagnosis as disseminated tuberculosis delayed appropriate antifungal treatment.
Implications:
- This case emphasizes the importance of a high index of suspicion for fungal infections, including cryptococcosis, in immunocompetent patients presenting with granulomatous lymphadenitis.
- Diagnostic challenges in immunocompetent hosts necessitate a broad differential diagnosis and thorough investigations.
- Timely and accurate diagnosis is critical to prevent severe complications such as visual loss.
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