Cryptococcus infection in a non-HIV patient: a case report

Fatal cryptococcal meningitis in a non-HIV patient

Cryptococcal infections (Cryptococcosis) are fatal fungal infections typically caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, a saprophyte frequently found in soil contaminated with  pigeon droppings and frequently seen in immunocompromised (specifically HIV Positive) individuals. Now a day’s awareness is emerging on cryptococcal disease among non-immunocompromised patients also. We present a case of Cryptococcus meningitis (CM) in a patient with cardiopulmonary arrest. A 55 year old male patient came with history of headache and fever with neck rigidity since last 3 months. The patient was admitted as a case of CM based on clinical findings and radiological features. Investigations were done to rule out other disorders of the immune system. He was treated with Amphotericine B (IV) and Fluconazole orally for 2 weeks. Culture of CSF was done which showed presence of Cryptococcus neoformans. It is concluded from the findings that Cryptococcus may also affect non-HIV patients regardless to their immune system.

Cryptococcus infection in a non-HIV patient: a case report

Cryptococcal infections are fungal infections most commonly seen in immunocompromised patients. Chronic high-dose steroid may precipitate such an immunocompromised state and thus create susceptibility to fungal infections. Cryptococcus neoformans is a saprophyte usually found in soil contaminated with pigeon droppings. Suspicion to diagnose begins with clinical symptoms that can be non-specific such as fevers, cough, and headaches. We present a case of steroid-induced cryptococcal infection in a non-HIV-infected person.