Abstract
BackgroundCerebral cryptococcomas is a rare form of central nervous system cryptococcosis. Most previous cases were mistaken for neoplasm before surgery. We present a case of cerebral cryptococcomas whose radiological profiles resembled demyelinating disease, especially tumefactive demyelinating lesion.Case presentationA 40-year-old male was admitted for 1-week-long unconsciousness. Brain MRI revealed a rim-enhanced mass within the corpus callosum body. Central nervous system demyelinating disease was suspected. Empirical corticosteroid treatment led to some improvement, but his condition deteriorated 2 months later. Brain MRI revealed punctate new foci. Cryptococcus neoformans was detected in cerebrospinal fluid. Cryptococcus antigen test was positive in his current and previous cerebrospinal fluid samples. The patient died despite standard antifungal treatment.ConclusionDiagnosis of cerebral cryptococcomas is challenging. It may mimic demyelinating diseases.
Highlights
Cerebral cryptococcomas is a rare form of central nervous system cryptococcosis
Cryptococcus neoformans was detected in the Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by Indian ink staining. (Fig. 1i) CSF cryptococcus antigen test was positive at 1:640
Collected and stored CSF was tested for cryptococcus antigen and found to be positive as well
Summary
Cerebral cryptococcomas is a rare form of central nervous system cryptococcosis. Most previous cases were mistaken for neoplasm before surgery. * Correspondence: zygadene@163.com 3Department of Neurology, Huashan Hospital, Fudan University, No.12 Wulumuqi Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai 200040, China Full list of author information is available at the end of the article We report a case of CNS cryptococcoma whose radiological profiles and early response to corticosteroid resembled demyelinating disease. CSF protein elevated to 3.64 g/L (normal range: 0.15–0.45 g/L). CSF glucose level was 2.6 mmol/L (normal range: 2.4–4.5,) and simultaneous blood glucose was 5.38 mmol/L.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
