Initial diagnosis of disseminated cryptococcosis and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome by fine needle aspiration of the thyroid. A case report.

Fine needle aspiration of the thyroid was performed on a patient with an enlarged, solid gland, revealing numerous budding yeasts of Cryptococcus neoformans. Special stains and culture confirmed the organism. This unexpected finding led to the diagnosis of disseminated cryptococcosis and human immunodeficiency virus infection.