Continuing Medical Education
Cryptococcal laryngitis: An uncommon presentation of a common pathogen
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans is an ubiquitous encapsulated yeast found worldwide, especially in areas with pigeons. The fungus thrives in
pigeon droppings and is responsible for primary pulmonary infection, but may disseminate and cause infection of the central nervous
system, skin and bone. Most cases are reported in immunocompromised hosts, most commonly those infected with HIV. However,
infection has been reported in immunocompetent hosts. Primary infection of the larynx is uncommon, and to date only 12 cases have been
reported. We present the first South African report of a young woman with HIV who presented with hoarseness of uncertain aetiology,
which was later confirmed to be cryptococcal laryngitis.
Authors' affiliations
Yahya Atiya, Division of Otorhinolaryngology - Head Neck Surgery, Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
S Dipuo Masege, Division of Otorhinolaryngology - Head Neck Surgery, Department of Neurosciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital and University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Date published: 2015-09-16
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