A rare cause of cerebral venous thrombosis: cryptococcal meningoencephalitis

Neurol Sci. 2016 Jul;37(7):1145-8. doi: 10.1007/s10072-016-2550-9. Epub 2016 Mar 29.

Abstract

Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) is a serious central nervous system infection caused by Cryptococcus neoformans, seen mostly in immunocompromised hosts and less in immunocompetent patients. The vast majority of cryptococcosis cases are seen as human immunodeficiency virus infections with advanced immunosuppression. Meningitis and meningoencephalitis are the most common clinical manifestations. Nevertheless, immunocompetent patients with CM are rarely reported. Cerebral venous sinus thrombosis is a rare complication of CM. Here, we report an immunocompetent patient with CM from a non-endemic area, who presented with an acute onset and atypical symptoms associated with cerebral venous thrombosis.

Keywords: Cerebral venous thrombosis; Cryptococcal meningoencephalitis; Immunocompetent patient; Infectious disease; Treatment.

MeSH terms

  • Cryptococcus neoformans / genetics
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Intracranial Thrombosis / etiology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Meningoencephalitis* / complications
  • Meningoencephalitis* / diagnostic imaging
  • Meningoencephalitis* / etiology
  • Meningoencephalitis* / genetics
  • Venous Thrombosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Venous Thrombosis / etiology*
  • Young Adult