infectious diseases
Cryptococcosis
Key Points
C. neoformansandC. gattiiare present worldwide. Cryptococcosis is acquired by inhalation and thus typically affects the lungs. In immunocompetent patients, infection is typically asymptomatic and self-limited. In patients who are immunocompromised,Cryptococcusmay disseminate to many sites, commonly to the brain and meninges, and to the skin. Diagnose using culture, staining, and/or serum and cerebrospinal fluid testing for cryptococcal antigen. For localized pulmonary disease, usefluconazole. For meningitis or other severe infection, use liposomalamphotericin Bwithflucytosine, followed byfluconazole. 