Epidemiological approach to Cryptococcus meningitis and related species in northeast Brazil: a scoping review

Abstract

Introduction: Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection associated with yeast of the Cryptococcus genus. It is an opportunistic infection, more prevalent in individuals with AIDS, primarily manifesting as meningitis. Although there are numerous cases of cryptococcosis in northeastern Brazil, little is reported in the literature regarding meningitis cases. Objective: This study aimed to conduct a scoping review of meningitis cases associated with the Cryptococcus genus reported in the northeastern region of Brazil. Methodology: Four databases were utilized. Twenty-one studies were selected, totaling 492 cases. All states had publications on cryptococcal meningitis cases. RESULTS: The results revealed few studies on Cryptococcus meningitis in the region, with 492 identified cases. The majority were caused by Cryptococcus neoformans (356 cases), followed by C. gattii (98 cases), and other related species. AIDS was the primary underlying condition, associated with high mortality. Genetic research was underutilized. Conclusion: There is a need to enhance diagnostic methods in conjunction with increased case reporting to obtain a more detailed and comprehensive understanding of the epidemiology of neurocryptococcosis in northeastern Brazil.