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Pneumocystis Pneumonia and Disseminated Cryptococcosis Dual Infection: A Case Report
João Filipe Félix Vieira Afonso1, Mafalda Maria Santos1, Joana Vieira1
1Internal Medicine, Unidade Local de Saúde do Oeste, Caldas da Rainha, PRT.
Cureus
|February 17, 2025
Summary
This case study details a 56-year-old male with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) who developed Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) and disseminated cryptococcosis. Despite treatment, neurological complications arose, highlighting complex opportunistic infections in advanced HIV/AIDS.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
- Radiology
Background:
- Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) compromises the immune system by targeting CD4 cells.
- Untreated HIV can progress to Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS), characterized by opportunistic infections.
Observation:
- A 56-year-old male with HIV presented with dyspnea and fever.
- Chest CT showed ground-glass opacities indicative of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP).
- Bronchoalveolar lavage confirmed PCP and identified Cryptococcus neoformans.
Findings:
- Disseminated cryptococcosis was diagnosed via lumbar puncture and MRI.
- The patient received targeted treatment for both PCP and cryptococcosis.
- Neurological deterioration occurred post-treatment, with cerebral CT revealing hemorrhagic lesions.
Implications:
- This case underscores the critical need for prompt diagnosis and management of opportunistic infections in individuals with HIV/AIDS.
- Complex coinfections can lead to severe, unexpected complications requiring multidisciplinary care.
- Further research into managing neurological sequelae of disseminated fungal infections in immunocompromised patients is warranted.
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