Focus on Cryptococcosis

Abstract

A case report of disseminated cutaneous cryptococcosis with Hodgkin's disease is presented. No foci in the lungs, central nervous system, bones, gastro-intestinal tract, liver, kidneys or heart were detected. C.neoformans was cultured, identified by its capsule, growth at 37'C ability to produce urease, specific nitrate and sugar assimilation and pathogenicity for the mouse. Histo-pathologically the organism was demonstrated in the tissue sections. Clinical subsidence was seen with amphotericin B 0.5 mg/kg. for 22 days. The fact that present day use of steroids, immuno-suppressives and anti-neoplastic agents are known to predispose to this infection is emphasised.