Liver dysfunction as the presenting feature of disseminated cryptococcosis

Abstract

Disseminated cryptococcosis is rare in immunocompetent individuals with central nervous and respiratory systems being the most common initial sites of involvement. Liver dysfunction as a presenting feature of disseminated cryptococcosis has been reported rarely, with the majority of patients being HIV negative and immunocompetent. We report a case of disseminated cryptococcosis in a three-year-old HIV seronegative, immunocompetent male child presenting with obstructive jaundice and lymphadenopathy. Initial diagnosis was made on liver and lymph node biopsy. Lung, skin, central nervous system (CNS) and urinary tract involvement occurred later in the course of disease. Diagnosis was confirmed by serology and culture.