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Published on: September 4, 2017
Cerebral cryptococcosis in Malaysia
Abstract:
Cryptococcal infection of the brain as encountered in a tropical country is reviewed. The meningitic form is not uncommon and there has been, in the last decade, an apparent, if not real, rise in incidence in Malaysia as in Singapore. Only exceptionally was there overt evidence of immunological deficiency. Hydrocephalus was present in about three-quarters of the patients with meningitis and shunts were employed readily. The presence of multiple small intracerebral cysts could be suspected clinically but treatment for this complication was ineffective. The antifungal agent used most frequently was 5-fluorocytosine. Resistance to this drug developed in about one patient in four. There is a need for further epidemiological studies and for a continuing search for new antifungal agents.
Insights
Cryptococcal brain infections, particularly meningitis, are rising in tropical regions like Malaysia. Antifungal resistance to 5-fluorocytosine is a significant concern, necessitating new treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Infectious Diseases
- Tropical Medicine
Background:
- Cryptococcal infection of the brain is a serious concern in tropical regions.
- An apparent rise in incidence has been observed in Malaysia and Singapore over the past decade.
- Overt immunological deficiency is rarely evident in affected patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the characteristics of cryptococcal brain infections in a tropical setting.
- To highlight challenges in management and treatment resistance.
- To underscore the need for further research and novel antifungal agents.
Main Methods:
- Review of clinical encounters with cryptococcal brain infections.
- Analysis of patient data regarding incidence, clinical presentation, and complications.
- Assessment of treatment outcomes and drug resistance patterns.
Main Results:
- Meningitic form of cryptococcal infection is not uncommon.
- Hydrocephalus affects approximately three-quarters of meningitis patients, often managed with shunts.
- Treatment with 5-fluorocytosine led to resistance in about 25% of patients.
- Intracerebral cysts were clinically suspected but difficult to treat effectively.
Conclusions:
- Cryptococcal meningitis requires careful management, especially regarding hydrocephalus.
- Antifungal resistance to 5-fluorocytosine is a significant clinical challenge.
- Further epidemiological studies and the development of new antifungal agents are crucial.
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