Cryptococcosis

Cryptococcosis is an infectious disease caused by encapsulated yeast fungi of the genus Cryptococcus, primarily Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii. It is not a genetic disorder but rather an acquired fungal infection that predominantly affects immunocompromised individuals, particularly those with HIV/AIDS, organ transplant recipients on immunosuppressive therapy, and patients receiving prolonged corticosteroid treatment. However, C. gattii can also cause disease in immunocompetent individuals. The organism is found worldwide in soil, particularly soil contaminated with bird (especially pigeon) droppings, and in association with certain tree species. Cryptococcosis primarily affects the central nervous system and the lungs, though it can disseminate to virtually any organ including the skin, bones, and prostate. The most common and serious manifestation is cryptococcal meningitis (or meningoencephalitis), which presents with headache, fever, neck stiffness, altered mental status, and visual disturbances. Pulmonary cryptococcosis may cause cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath, or may be asymptomatic. Cutaneous involvement can manifest as papules, nodules, or ulcers. Disseminated disease can affect multiple organ systems simultaneously. Treatment depends on the site and severity of infection and the patient's immune status. Cryptococcal meningitis is typically treated with an induction phase of intravenous amphotericin B combined with flucytosine, followed by consolidation and maintenance therapy with fluconazole. Pulmonary or mild-to-moderate disease in immunocompetent patients may be managed with fluconazole alone. In HIV-associated cryptococcosis, antiretroviral therapy is essential but must be carefully timed to avoid immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS). Despite available treatments, cryptococcal meningitis remains a leading cause of death among people living with HIV, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, with significant global mortality.

Data sourced from FDA regulatory filings and ClinicalTrials.gov. Updated periodically.

Common questions about Cryptococcosis