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Rare case of ulnar cryptococcal osteomyelitis in a 26-year-old immunocompetent patient
Beth Vettiyil1,2, William A Murphy1
1MD Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Abstract:
Cryptococcus is a ubiquitous fungus that can cause serious infections, especially in immunocompromised patients. It usually affects the brain and lungs but can occasionally affect the bones. The vertebrae, skull, and femur are most commonly involved. Cryptococcal osteomyelitis of the ulna is very rare, with less than 5 previously published cases in literature. The imaging findings of cryptococcal osteomyelitis are unfortunately often indistinguishable from those of malignancy. In this report, we describe a case of cryptococcal osteomyelitis of the ulna in an immunocompetent patient.
Insights
This report details a rare case of cryptococcal osteomyelitis affecting the ulna bone in an immunocompetent patient. The study highlights the diagnostic challenges posed by fungal bone infections, which mimic malignancy on imaging.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Mycology
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Cryptococcus is a fungus causing serious infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
- While typically affecting the brain and lungs, Cryptococcus can manifest as osteomyelitis, commonly involving the vertebrae, skull, and femur.
- Osteomyelitis of the ulna caused by Cryptococcus is exceptionally rare, with fewer than five cases documented previously.
