Naganishia albidus Causing Perioral Cutaneous Infection: A Rare Case Easily Misdiagnosed

Cutaneous cryptococcosis is rarely caused by Naganishia albidus, especially in immunocompetent individuals. We report a unique case of perioral cutaneous infection in a 37-year-old male with scattered erythematous, pruritic, and scaly lesions lasting over a month. Initial clinical presentation mimicked common dermatological conditions, leading to potential misdiagnosis. Diagnosis was confirmed through fungal culture, fluorescence microscopy, MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and molecular identification. The patient was successfully treated with oral itraconazole and topical fluconazole cream for six weeks. This case underscores the importance of considering rare fungal infections in atypical presentations to prevent misdiagnosis and delays in treatment.