Primary cutaneous cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent patient due to Cryptococcus gattii molecular type VGI in Brazil: a case report and review of literature

Mycoses. 2014 Jul;57(7):442-7. doi: 10.1111/myc.12176. Epub 2014 Feb 24.

Abstract

Primary Cutaneous Cryptococcosis is an uncommon infection caused by the yeast Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii. Few case reports are available in the literature describing in detail primary cutaneous cryptococcosis due to C. gattii in immunocompetent patients. Herein, we present a case of a 68-year-old immunocompetent male patient with erythematous nodular lesions on the right forearm due to C. gattii mating-type α and molecular type VGI. The virulence factors test was performed for capsule diameter, melanin production and phospholipase activity. In vitro fluconazole testing showed the sensitivity profile of this clinical isolate. In addition, a review of the literature on this subject was carried out and verified that this is the first reported case of VGI in the south-east region of Brazil.

Keywords: Cryptococcus gattii; antifungal therapy; immunocompetent patient; molecular type VGI; primary cutaneous cryptococcosis - PCC; virulence factors.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Brazil
  • Cryptococcosis / immunology
  • Cryptococcosis / microbiology*
  • Cryptococcus gattii / classification
  • Cryptococcus gattii / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Immunocompetence
  • Male