[Neuromeningeal cryptococcosis in patients apparently non-immunodeficient: report of 3 cases in Dakar, Senegal]

Bull Soc Pathol Exot. 2008 Oct;101(4):311-3. doi: 10.3185/pathexo3131.
[Article in French]

Abstract

Cryptococcal infection is common in immunocompromised patients. Its occurrence in immuno-competent patients is rare. We report here 3 cases of neuromeningeal cryptococcosis in patients without any immunosuppressive documented factors. They were respectively 25, 36 and 50 years old presenting clinical signs of chronic meningo-encephalitis. The HIV test was negative for all of them and the CD4 counts were normal. One patient died on the seventh day of the treatment with amphotericin B; the second was discharged on parents' request, while the third patient improved with intravenous fluconazole. This study suggests that when facing a sub-acute or chronic meningitis, an investigation for cryptococcal infection is recommended as before AIDS epidemic.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Amphotericin B / therapeutic use
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • CD4 Lymphocyte Count
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Female
  • Fluconazole / therapeutic use
  • HIV Seronegativity
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Male
  • Meningitis, Cryptococcal / diagnosis*
  • Meningitis, Cryptococcal / immunology
  • Middle Aged
  • Senegal
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents
  • Amphotericin B
  • Fluconazole