Disseminated cryptococcosis with meningitis, peritonitis, and cryptococcemia in a HIV-negative patient with cirrhosis: a case report.

INTRODUCTION

Cryptococcus neoformans is an encapsulated yeast that causes serious infections in immunocompromised populations. The majority of cases occur in HIV-infected individuals. Disseminated disease is uncommon, and very rarely includes peritonitis.

CASE PRESENTATION: We report a case of a 41-year-old, HIV-negative, Caucasian man with alcoholic liver cirrhosis who presented with fever and seizure. Disseminated cryptococcosis with meningitis, peritonitis, and cryptococcemia was diagnosed, and despite adequate treatment the patient developed multi-system organ failure and eventually expired.

CONCLUSION

Disseminated cryptococcosis, particularly with peritonitis, is an uncommon manifestation of Cryptococcus neoformans infection. Liver cirrhosis serves as a risk factor for disseminated disease in HIV-negative patients. A high clinical suspicion and early initiation of therapy is needed to recognize and treat patients effectively.