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Visualizing Non-lytic Exocytosis of Cryptococcus neoformans from Macrophages Using Digital Light Microscopy
Published on: October 21, 2014
Omental cryptococcoma. An unusual presentation of cryptococcosis
Archives of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
|March 1, 1986
Summary
This report details the first known case of an omental cryptococcal granuloma, presenting as a large abdominal mass. The rare finding involved encapsulated yeasts and eosinophils in the omentum.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Cryptococcosis typically affects the central nervous system.
- Omental involvement is an extremely rare presentation of this fungal infection.
Observation:
- An 8-cm omental lesion was discovered during exploratory laparotomy in a 29-year-old male.
- The lesion appeared as a soft mass in the omentum.
Findings:
- Pathologic examination confirmed the lesion as a cryptococcal granuloma.
- Microscopic analysis revealed budding, encapsulated yeasts consistent with Cryptococcus species.
- Eosinophilic aggregates were also noted within the granuloma.
Implications:
- This case highlights the potential for extraneural cryptococcosis in unusual locations.
- It underscores the importance of considering fungal infections in abdominal masses, even when rare.
- The findings contribute to the understanding of Cryptococcus pathogenesis and clinical presentations.
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