Rare presentation of cutaneous cryptococcosis in advanced HIV

Abstract

Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated yeast which causes opportunistic infection in the context of immunosuppression, including advanced HIV infection. Cryptococcal infection is systemic and can result in a fatal meningoencephalitis. Cutaneous lesions occur in 15% of those with systemic cryptococcosis and may be the first indicator of infection. Identification of these lesions may therefore expedite diagnosis and access to treatment. Cutaneous lesions typically present as papulonodular molluscum-like lesions; however, may vary significantly in appearance. We describe a rare case of extraneuronal cryptococcal infection manifesting as large subcutaneous tumours in a patient with advanced HIV-related immune deficiency.