Extensive pulmonary cryptococcosis in an HIV infected person: a case report

Abstract

Cryptococcus is a fungus whose disease manifestations are usually found in immuno compromised persons. In HIV infection, cryptococcal infection is usually found in the central nervous system. However, other sites like the lungs are also rarely affected. We here report the case of a 45 year old HIV infected male, who was admitted with severe dyspnoea and weight loss. HRCT thorax revealed bilateral pulmonary consolidation with cavitation. FNAC from the lung lesions revealed large capsulated budding yeast cells, suggestive of Cryptococcus. Serum cryptococcal antigen was also positive. The patient, unfortunately, could not be saved despite anti-fungal therapy.