An unusual case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent host presenting with verrucous skin lesions

Abstract

Disseminated cryptococcosis, commonly linked to immunocompromised conditions like HIV infection, is exceedingly rare in immunocompetent individuals. This case report presents a rare case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent patient, who manifested with fever, weight loss, neurological manifestations, and distinct verrucous skin lesions. Mycological cultures and histopathological assessments were conducted, leading to the identification of Cryptococcus neoformans var. gattii within both lung and skin biopsies. This case highlights the significance of considering this yeast infection within immunocompetent individuals and the necessity for promptly initiating appropriate antifungal therapy to enhance patient outcomes.

Keywords

• Disseminated cryptococcosis
• Immunocompetent host
• Verrucous lesion
• Cryptococcus gattii
• PET scan