The Poor Prognosis of Central Nervous System Cryptococcosis among Nonimmunosuppressed Patients: A Call for Better Disease Recognition and Evaluation of Adjuncts to Antifungal Therapy

Abstract

We describe 9 nonimmunosuppressed patients with central nervous system cryptococcosis. Morbidity and mortality were high, especially among patients with cerebral infarcts. This was attributed to delayed diagnosis and apparent sequelae of overwhelming host immune responses. We present clues suggesting the diagnosis. Increased recognition and timely diagnosis of this condition may improve outcomes.