Cryptococcal Osteomyelitis of the Humeral Head Initially Diagnosed as Avascular Necrosis

Abstract

Cryptococcal skeletal infections can lead to significant morbidity and mortality and should be considered in the differential diagnosis of lytic osseous lesions. Clinical and radiological similarities to various disorders may lead to delay in initiation of antifungal treatment. This report describes a case of cryptococcal osteomyelitis of humeral bone in a 19-year-old female, emphasizing the clinical presentation, diagnostic approach and treatment options.