The diagnosis of cryptococcal infection was established in 3 patients with AIDS. Infection was meningo-encephalic in all and presented a violent outset. The chemical characteristics of the CSF were normal. Detection of cryptococcal antigen, presence of encapsulated yeast forms revealed by india-ink staining and positive cultures allowed a definitive diagnosis. Response to therapy with amphotericin B alone or in combination with 5-fluorocytosine was poor. A maintenance therapy with fluconazole is recommended.