Cryptococcal meningitis is a severe fungal infection that primarily affects individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or those undergoing immunosuppressive therapies after organ transplantation. In rare cases, immunocompetent individuals may also be affected by this life-threatening condition. We present the case of a 64-year-old male patient with no known underlying immune deficiency diagnosed with cryptococcal meningitis, who presented with persistent headaches and subjective fevers. Due to the absence of apparent immunosuppressive conditions or identifiable risk factors during evaluation, our suspicion for fungal meningitis was low. However, the diagnosis was confirmed through CSF fluid analysis, leading to the immediate initiation of guideline-directed treatment with amphotericin and fluconazole. This case highlights the importance of considering cryptococcal meningitis in the differential diagnosis of persistent headaches, even in patients without known immune compromise. Early recognition and appropriate management are essential to preventing complications and delays in management and guaranteeing optimal outcomes for all our patients.
Keywords: central nervous system infections (cns); clinical mycology; cryptococcus meningitis; cryptococcus neoformans (c. neoformans); immuno-competent.
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