Unveiling bone marrow cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent child: A rare case presentation

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Infectious Diseases
• Mycology
• Hematology

Background:

• Cryptococcal infection typically affects immunocompromised individuals, often those with HIV.
• Disseminated cryptococcosis in children is rare but frequently fatal, necessitating rapid diagnosis and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report a case of bone marrow cryptococcosis in a pediatric patient.
• To emphasize the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic approach for atypical presentations of fungal infections.

Main Methods:

• A 4-year-old female child presented with prolonged fever, abdominal pain, and hepatosplenomegaly.
• Bone marrow aspiration and trephine biopsy were performed, with smears revealing Cryptococcosis confirmed by special stains.

Main Results:

• Bone marrow aspirate smears identified Cryptococcal infection, despite initial suspicion of hematolymphoid malignancy.
• The patient was treated with liposomal amphotericin B and flucytosine.

Conclusions:

• Atypical presentations of cryptococcosis require a thorough diagnostic workup.
• Prompt diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are critical for managing pediatric disseminated cryptococcosis.