Clinical evaluation of diagnosis and treatment in three cases of primary pulmonary cryptococcosis

Abstract

Pulmonary cryptococcosis has been considered as a disease associated with depressed immune function of the host. However, it may develop in healthy individuals without any underlying disease. Recently, we experienced three cases of primary pulmonary cryptococcosis. Case 1. A 30-year-old woman in the sixth week postpartum developed cough and low-grade fever. Chest X-ray showed infiltrative shadows in right S2 and left S6. A diagnosis of pulmonary cryptococcosis was made from transbronchial brushings and histological examination. Case 2. A 51-year-old man was noted to have abnormal shadows on chest X-ray film at a regular medical checkup. Chest X-ray examination showed a small nodular density in left S9. A diagnosis of pulmonary cryptococcosis was made from percutaneous pulmonary paracentesis. Case 3. A 58-year-old man was noted to have an abnormal shadow on chest X-ray film at a regular medical checkup. Chest X-ray examination showed a nodular density in right S8. A diagnosis of pulmonary cryptococcosis was made from transbronchial brushings and histological examination. All three cases showed no impairment in their immune functions. These cases are described with a discussion of the literature.