Fatal Case of Disseminated Cryptococcosis In a Young Man

A young Hispanic man in histhirties presented with a two-week history of headaches, fever, and fatigue. Laboratory data revealed anemia, leucocytosis, thrombocytopenia, and elevation of liver enzymes. He was admitted to the hospital with concerns for a tick-borne illness and started on broad-spectrum antibiotics. Further investigations led to discovery of an immune compromised state due to Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The patient developed rapidly progressive multi-organ system failure, and succumbed to his illness within 72 hours of admission. A diagnosis of disseminated acute cryptococcal infection involving multiple organs (brain, heart, lungs, liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys) was made on autopsy. The severity of the infection along with the underlying immunocompromised status contributed to his insidious presentation, rapid progression, and ultimately death.