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Cryptococcal skull infection: a case report with review of the literature
R A Armonda1, J M Fleckenstein, B Brandvold
1Department of Neurosurgery, Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington, District of Columbia.
Abstract:
A case of cryptococcal osteomyelitis of the skull is presented. The patient was an immunocompetent host with skull and skin involvement without central nervous system or pulmonary extension. The radiographic findings are reviewed to include skull films, bone scan, and computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging scans. The patient underwent surgical debridement of the lesion as well as systemic medical therapy with amphotericin B and flucytosine. The medical and surgical therapy for such lesions is reviewed. Surgical intervention is emphasized for the removal of bony sequestrum and nonviable bone while maintaining an intact dura.
Insights
Cryptococcal osteomyelitis of the skull occurred in an immunocompetent patient. Surgical debridement combined with antifungal medication effectively treated the bone infection.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Cryptococcal osteomyelitis is a rare fungal infection.
- It typically affects immunocompromised individuals.
- Skull involvement without CNS or pulmonary extension is uncommon.