Cryptococcal sternal osteomyelitis in a healthy woman: A review of Cryptococcus neoformans

Abstract

Cryptococcus, an opportunistic yeast, known to afflict immune-compromised patients is often overlooked in immune-competent patients. This has led to increasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. We present a case of Cryptococcus causing sternal osteomyelitis in an immune-competent individual. Till date no case of Cryptococcus causing sternal osteomyelitis in an immune-competent patient has been reported in the English literature since 1946-2011. With the rising incidence of Cryptococcus infection it should be included among the list of infections causing osteomyelitis. Early detection and prompt treatment can decrease both morbidity and mortality.