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Abdominal cryptococcoma in AIDS: a case report
F P Scalfano1, J G Prichard, N Lamki
1Department of Radiology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas 77030.
Abstract:
Cryptococcosis is a recognized opportunistic pathogen in the acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Although central nervous system infection and disseminated cryptococcosis is common in acquired immune deficiency syndrome, localized infection is rare. We present a case of massive retroperitoneal and mesenteric adenopathy in a male homosexual patient with acquired immune deficiency syndrome with clinical and radiologic features suggestive of lymphoma. However, this was proven pathologically to represent cryptococcal infiltration of the lymph nodes. Our experience indicates that Cryptococcus neoformans should be included in the differential diagnosis of massive abdominal adenopathy in the acquired immune deficiency syndrome.
Insights
Cryptococcosis, a fungal infection, can cause rare localized abdominal lymph node swelling in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). This case highlights the importance of considering Cryptococcus neoformans in AIDS patients with abdominal adenopathy.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic infection commonly seen in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS).
- While central nervous system and disseminated infections are frequent, localized cryptococcosis is uncommon.
- Abdominal lymphadenopathy in AIDS patients often raises suspicion for lymphoma.
Observation:
- A case study of a homosexual male patient with AIDS presenting with massive retroperitoneal and mesenteric adenopathy.
- Clinical and radiological findings initially suggested lymphoma.
- Pathological examination revealed cryptococcal infiltration of the lymph nodes.
Findings:
- Localized abdominal cryptococcosis can mimic lymphoma in immunocompromised individuals.
- Cryptococcus neoformans can cause significant lymphadenopathy in the retroperitoneal and mesenteric regions.
- This presentation is rare but significant in the context of AIDS.
Implications:
- Cryptococcus neoformans should be considered in the differential diagnosis of massive abdominal adenopathy in patients with AIDS.
- Early recognition and diagnosis are crucial for appropriate management of localized cryptococcosis.
- This case expands the understanding of the clinical spectrum of cryptococcosis in immunocompromised hosts.