Cryptococcal Osteomyelitis of the Entire Humerus: A Case Report

JBJS Case Connect. 2020 Oct-Dec;10(4):e20.00279. doi: 10.2106/JBJS.CC.20.00279.

Abstract

Case: We describe a case of cryptococcal osteomyelitis in a 70-year-old man who presented with left elbow and shoulder pain. Subsequent imaging indicated osteomyelitis of the entire humerus, and he underwent debridement of the elbow and shoulder. Pathological findings revealed Cryptococcus neoformans infection. Surgical management was followed by a prolonged course of antibiotics.

Conclusion: Although C. neoformans is rare as the etiology of infection of the entire humerus, orthopaedic surgeons should consider cryptococcosis as a potential cause of infection.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Cryptococcosis / diagnostic imaging
  • Cryptococcosis / immunology
  • Cryptococcosis / microbiology*
  • Cryptococcus neoformans / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Humerus / diagnostic imaging
  • Humerus / microbiology*
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Osteomyelitis / diagnostic imaging
  • Osteomyelitis / microbiology*