Disseminated Cryptococcosis with Cutaneous Involvement due to Cryptococcus gattii: A Case Report

บทคัดย่อ

Disseminated cryptococcosis is a severe, life-threatening fungal infection caused by Cryptococcus species, with Cryptococcus gattii being a primary etiological agent in immunocompetent individuals. Rare but increasingly documented, cutaneous involvement in disseminated cryptococcosis can manifest as papules, nodules, ulcers, cellulitis-like or verrucous lesions. Here, we present a case of disseminated cryptococcosis with notable cutaneous involvement in an otherwise immunocompetent patient. The diagnosis was confirmed through fungal culture and histopathological examination, revealing typical C. gattii morphology. This case highlights the potential for C. gattii to cause systemic infection, including unusual cutaneous manifestations, in individuals without overt immunosuppression. This case also emphasizes considering cryptococcosis in the differential diagnosis of skin lesions, particularly in endemic regions or in patients with a history of environmental exposure. Early recognition and antifungal therapy are critical to improving outcomes, as cryptococcosis can rapidly progress to fatal multiorgan failure if left untreated.