Disseminated Cryptococcosis in a Non-HIV Patient in Singapore. (22nd September 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: See, Jonathan; Fong, Kok Choon Raymond; Shafi, Humaira
• Other Names: Dalekos George N. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Case reports in infectious diseases. Volume 2019(2019)
• Publication Date: 2019-09-22
• Subjects: Communicable diseases -- Periodicals; Communicable diseases -- Case studies -- Periodicals; Communicable Diseases; Infectious Disease Medicine; Communicable diseases; Electronic journals; Periodicals; Case studies; Periodicals; 616.9
• DOI: 10.1155/2019/3835701
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-6625

Abstract

Abstract : We present a case of disseminated cryptococcosis (DC) in a 71-year-old gentleman with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) on long-term corticosteroids. He initially presented with right arm cellulitis in a tertiary hospital in Singapore and was subsequently diagnosed with DC involving skin, meninges, blood, and possibly pulmonary involvement. He eventually succumbed to the disease despite prolonged antifungal therapy. Through this case, we wish to highlight an atypical clinical presentation of an uncommon infection and hope to share the importance of considering DC in the differential diagnosis of nonresolving cellulitis among immunocompromised individuals. Mortality and morbidity rates for this condition remain high despite appropriate treatment. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for improved outcomes. More research is needed to improve the therapeutic modalities for treatment of DC and to improve the clinical outcomes for this life-threatening condition.