Cutaneous presentation of cryptococcal infection with subclinical central nervous system involvement secondary to
Shin Yee Chey1,2, Niamh-Anna O'Sullivan3, Trevor Beer4
1Department of Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia.
Abstract:
Fingolimod is a multiple sclerosis disease-modifying therapy which sequestrates lymphocytes in the lymph nodes, thereby reducing peripheral blood lymphocytes. Cryptococcal infection is an important adverse effect which should be recognised. We report a case of cutaneous and central nervous system infection who presented with isolated cutaneous symptoms in the absence of neurological or systemic manifestations.
Insights
Fingolimod, a multiple sclerosis treatment, can cause cryptococcal infections. This case highlights a patient with skin and central nervous system infection presenting only with skin symptoms, emphasizing the need for awareness.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Infectious Diseases
- Dermatology
Background:
- Fingolimod is a sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor modulator used for multiple sclerosis (MS).
- It reduces circulating lymphocytes by retaining them in lymphoid tissues.
- Fingolimod use is associated with an increased risk of opportunistic infections, including cryptococcosis.
Related Concept Videos
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Glucocorticoids
Drugs for Treatment of Crohn's Disease in IBD Using Immunomodulatory Agents
Fungal Phylum Microsporidia
Skin Diseases and Disorders
Gram-positive Staphylococcus spp. and Streptococcus spp. are responsible for many of the most common skin infections. However, many...
Endocarditis II: Clinical Features of Infective Endocarditis
Immunodeficiency Diseases
There are three main causes of immunodeficiency...


