Case Report: Cryptococcal Meningitis in a Previously Immunocompetent Patient with Coronavirus Disease 2019

Am J Trop Med Hyg. 2024 Jan 9;110(2):270-273. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.23-0457. Print 2024 Feb 7.

Abstract

Cryptococcus neoformans infections occur most frequently in immunocompromised patients. Here, we report a case of cryptococcal meningitis in a previously immunocompetent 78-year-old female patient after treatment of COVID-19. Underlying diseases included hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. The patient was critically ill and was treated with remdesivir, baricitinib, and dexamethasone. During hospitalization, her mental state changed, and C. neoformans was detected in the cerebrospinal fluid. She died despite receiving antifungal treatment. Treatment of COVID-19 may be a predisposing factor for C. neoformans infection. There is a need for concern and countermeasures for opportunistic fungal infections that may accompany COVID-19.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use
  • COVID-19*
  • Cryptococcus neoformans*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Meningitis, Cryptococcal* / diagnosis
  • Meningitis, Cryptococcal* / drug therapy

Substances

  • Antifungal Agents