Disseminated cryptococcosis in an HIV patient with hepatitis C as the associated risk factor

Document Type : Case report

Authors

1 Department of Microbiology, Government Medical College Hospital, Chandigarh, India

2 Department of General Medicine, Government Medical College Hospital, Chandigarh, India

10.22034/cmm.2025.345333.1600

Abstract

Background and Purpose: In the context of HIV/AIDS, cryptococcosis emerges as one of the most common opportunistic infections, with a predilection for affecting individuals with compromised immune function.
Case Report: This study aimed to present a compelling case of disseminated cryptococcosis in a 29-year-old male with a complex medical history, marked by HIV infection, hepatitis C, and a longstanding history of intravenous drug abuse. Blood sample of the patient as well as the cerebrospinal fluid sample grew Cryptococcus neoformans. Immunochromatographic test performed on CSF and serum sample was also positive.
Conclusion: Chronic Hepatitis C Virus can disrupt the blood-brain barrier and cause neuroinflammation predisposing the central nervous system to hematogenous seeding during fungemia. Multifaceted medical background of the patient underscored the challenges in the management of comorbidities.

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Volume 11, Continuous
2025 Article ID:1600
  • Receive Date: 09 December 2024
  • Revise Date: 02 February 2025
  • Accept Date: 07 February 2025
  • Publish Date: 19 March 2025