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Sood H, Pradhan N, Singh H, Dhibar DP, Bethanbhatla MK, Kaur H, Gupta K, Suri V, Bhalla A. An Unusual Case of Brain Abscess in an HIV Negative Host. Am J Med 2024; 137:e117-e119. [PMID: 38582320 DOI: 10.1016/j.amjmed.2024.03.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Revised: 03/12/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/08/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Harleen Sood
- Division of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Nupur Pradhan
- Department of Pathology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Harpreet Singh
- Division of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India.
| | - Deba Prasad Dhibar
- Division of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | | | - Harsimran Kaur
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Kirti Gupta
- Department of Pathology, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Vikas Suri
- Division of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Ashish Bhalla
- Division of Clinical Infectious Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
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Dao A, Kim HY, Garnham K, Kidd S, Sati H, Perfect J, Sorrell TC, Harrison T, Rickerts V, Gigante V, Alastruey-Izquierdo A, Alffenaar JW, Morrissey CO, Chen SCA, Beardsley J. Cryptococcosis-a systematic review to inform the World Health Organization Fungal Priority Pathogens List. Med Mycol 2024; 62:myae043. [PMID: 38935902 PMCID: PMC11210623 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myae043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis causes a high burden of disease worldwide. This systematic review summarizes the literature on Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii infections to inform the World Health Organization's first Fungal Priority Pathogen List. PubMed and Web of Science were used to identify studies reporting on annual incidence, mortality, morbidity, antifungal resistance, preventability, and distribution/emergence in the past 10 years. Mortality rates due to C. neoformans were 41%-61%. Complications included acute renal impairment, raised intracranial pressure needing shunts, and blindness. There was moderate evidence of reduced susceptibility (MIC range 16-32 mg/l) of C. neoformans to fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole, and amphotericin B. Cryptococcus gattii infections comprised 11%-33% of all cases of invasive cryptococcosis globally. The mortality rates were 10%-23% for central nervous system (CNS) and pulmonary infections, and ∼43% for bloodstream infections. Complications described included neurological sequelae (17%-27% in C. gattii infections) and immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome. MICs were generally low for amphotericin B (MICs: 0.25-0.5 mg/l), 5-flucytosine (MIC range: 0.5-2 mg/l), itraconazole, posaconazole, and voriconazole (MIC range: 0.06-0.5 mg/l). There is a need for increased surveillance of disease phenotype and outcome, long-term disability, and drug susceptibility to inform robust estimates of disease burden.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aiken Dao
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hannah Yejin Kim
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
- Department of Pharmacy, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
| | - Katherine Garnham
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Birtinya, Qld 4575, Australia
| | - Sarah Kidd
- National Mycology Reference Centre, Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, SA Pathology, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Hatim Sati
- AMR Division, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | | | - Tania C Sorrell
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Thomas Harrison
- Institute of Infection and Immunity, St George’s University London, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Centre for Medical Mycology, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | | | - Valeria Gigante
- AMR Division, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Ana Alastruey-Izquierdo
- Mycology Reference Laboratory, National Centre for Microbiology, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Jan-Willem Alffenaar
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
- Sydney Pharmacy School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - C Orla Morrissey
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
- Monash University, Department of Infectious Diseases, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon C-A Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, New South Wales Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Sydney, Australia
| | - Justin Beardsley
- Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney, Australia
- Westmead Clinical School, Westmead Hospital, Sydney, Australia
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de Holanda Fonseca DL, Silva DMWD, de Albuquerque Maranhão FC. Molecular characterization of clinical and environmental isolates from the Cryptococcus neoformans/C. Gattii species complexes of Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil. Braz J Microbiol 2024; 55:1369-1380. [PMID: 38619732 PMCID: PMC11153433 DOI: 10.1007/s42770-024-01313-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is one of the major life-threatening opportunistic/systemic fungal diseases of worldwide occurrence, which can be asymptomatic or establish pneumonia and meningoencephalitis mainly in immunosuppressed patients, caused by the Cryptococcus neoformans and C. gattii species complexes. Acquisition is by inhaling fungal propagules from avian droppings, tree hollows and decaying wood, and the association of the molecular types with geographic origin, virulence and antifungal resistance have epidemiological importance. Since data on cryptococcosis in Alagoas are limited, we sought to determine the molecular types of etiological agents collected from clinical and environmental sources. We evaluated 21 isolates previously collected from cerebrospinal fluid and from environment sources (pigeon droppings and tree hollows) in Maceió-Alagoas (Brazil). Restriction fragment length polymorphism of URA5 gene was performed to characterize among the eight standard molecular types (VNI-VNIV and VGI-VGIV). Among isolates, 66.67% (14) were assigned to C. neoformans VNI - 12 of them (12/14) recovered from liquor and 2 from a tree hollow (2/14). One isolate from pigeon droppings (4.76%) corresponded to C. neoformans VNIV, while five strains from tree hollows and one from pigeon droppings (6, 28.57%) to C. gattii VGII. VNI-type was present in clinical and environmental samples and most C. neoformans infections were observed in HIV-positive patients, while types VNIV and VGII were prevalent in environmental sources in Alagoas. This is the first molecular characterization of Cryptococcus spp. in Alagoas, our study provides additional information on the ecoepidemiology of Cryptococcus spp. in Brazil, contributing to a closer view of the endemic species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Denise Maria Wanderlei da Silva
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Sector of Microbiology, Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Cristina de Albuquerque Maranhão
- Institute of Biological and Health Sciences, Sector of Microbiology, Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology, Federal University of Alagoas, Av. Lourival de Melo Mota, S/N, Tabuleiro do Martins, Maceió, 57072-900, Alagoas, Brazil.
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Zhu F, Zhou Z, Ma S, Xu Y, Tan C, Yang H, Zhang P, Qin R, Luo Y, Pan P, Chen J. Design of a cryptococcus neoformans vaccine by subtractive proteomics combined with immunoinformatics. Int Immunopharmacol 2024; 135:112242. [PMID: 38772296 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2024.112242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Revised: 04/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
The emergence of Cryptococcus neoformans has posed an undeniable burden to many regions worldwide, with its strains mainly entering the lungs through the respiratory tract and spreading throughout the body. Limitations of drug regimens, such as high costs and limited options, have directed our attention toward the promising field of vaccine development. In this study, the subtractive proteomics approach was employed to select target proteins from databases that can accurately cover serotypes A and D of the Cryptococcus neoformans. Further, two multi-epitope vaccines consisting of T and B cell epitopes were demonstrated that they have good structural stability and could bind with immune receptor to induce desired immune responses in silico. After further evaluation, these vaccines show the potential for large-scale production and applicability to the majority of the population of the world. In summary, these two vaccines have been theoretically proven to combat Cryptococcus neoformans infections, awaiting further experimental validation of their actual protective effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Zhu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyou Zhou
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Shiyang Ma
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Yizhong Xu
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Caixia Tan
- National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; Department of Infection Control Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China
| | - Hang Yang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Peipei Zhang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Rongliu Qin
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Yuying Luo
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Pinhua Pan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China.
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, National Key Clinical Specialty, Branch of National Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Disease, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Center of Respiratory Medicine, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, China; Clinical Research Center for Respiratory Diseases in Hunan Province, Changsha, Hunan, China; Hunan Engineering Research Center for Intelligent Diagnosis and Treatment of Respiratory Disease, Changsha, Hunan, China; National Clinical Research Center for Geriatric Disorders, Xiangya Hospital, Changsha, Hunan, China; FuRong Laboratory, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China.
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Chastain DB, Spradlin M, Ahmad H, Henao-Martínez AF. Unintended Consequences: Risk of Opportunistic Infections Associated With Long-term Glucocorticoid Therapies in Adults. Clin Infect Dis 2024; 78:e37-e56. [PMID: 37669916 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciad474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are widespread anti-inflammatory medications used in medical practice. The immunosuppressive effects of systemic glucocorticoids and increased susceptibility to infections are widely appreciated. However, the dose-dependent model frequently used may not accurately predict the risk of infection in all patients treated with long-term glucocorticoids. In this review, we examine the risks of opportunistic infections (OIs) in patients requiring glucocorticoid therapy by evaluating the influence of the glucocorticoid dose, duration, and potency, combined with biological and host clinical factors and concomitant immunosuppressive therapy. We propose strategies to prevent OIs, which involve screening, antimicrobial prophylaxis, and immunizations. While this review focuses on patients with autoimmune, inflammatory, or neoplastic diseases, the potential risks and preventative strategies are likely applicable to other populations. Clinicians should actively assess the benefit-harm ratios of systemic glucocorticoids and implement preventive efforts to decrease their associated infections complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Chastain
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, Albany, Georgia, USA
| | - Megan Spradlin
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Hiba Ahmad
- Division of Medical Oncology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Qu J, Lv X. Cryptococcal meningitis in apparently immunocompetent patients. Crit Rev Microbiol 2024; 50:76-86. [PMID: 36562731 DOI: 10.1080/1040841x.2022.2159786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is an invasive fungal disease that currently poses a threat to human health worldwide, with high morbidity and mortality, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Although CM mainly occurs in HIV-positive patients and other immunocompromised patients, it is also increasingly seen in seemingly immunocompetent hosts. The clinical characteristics of CM between immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations are different. However, few studies have focussed on CM in immunocompetent individuals. This review summarizes the clinical characteristics of apparently immunocompetent CM patients in terms of aetiology, immune pathogenesis, clinical presentation, laboratory data, imaging findings, treatment strategies and prognosis. It is of great significance to further understand the disease characteristics of CM, explore new treatment strategies and improve the prognosis of CM in immunocompetent individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junyan Qu
- Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaoju Lv
- Center of Infectious Disease, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Alanazi AH, Chastain DB, Rudraraju M, Parvathagiri V, Shan S, Lin X, Henao-Martínez AF, Franco-Paredes C, Narayanan SP, Somanath PR. A multi-arm, parallel, preclinical study investigating the potential benefits of acetazolamide, candesartan, and triciribine in combination with fluconazole for the treatment of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis. Eur J Pharmacol 2023; 960:176177. [PMID: 37931839 PMCID: PMC10985624 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.176177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
Cryptococcus neoformans, an opportunistic fungal pathogen, primarily infects immunodeficient patients frequently causing cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM). Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is a serious complication responsible for increased morbidity and mortality in CM patients. Non-invasive pharmacological agents that mitigate ICP could be beneficial in treating CM patients. The objective of the study was to investigate the efficacy of acetazolamide (AZA), candesartan (CAN), and triciribine (TCBN), in combination with the antifungal fluconazole, on C. neoformans-induced endothelial, brain, and lung injury in an experimental mouse model of CM. Our study shows that C. neoformans increases the expression of brain endothelial cell (BEC) junction proteins Claudin-5 (Cldn5) and VE-Cadherin to induce pathological cell-barrier remodeling and gap formation associated with increased Akt and p38 MAPK activation. All three agents inhibited C. neoformans-induced endothelial gap formation, only CAN and TCBN significantly reduced C. neoformans-induced Cldn5 expression, and only TCBN was effective in inhibiting Akt and p38MAPK. Interestingly, although C. neoformans did not cause brain or lung edema in mice, it induced lung and brain injuries, which were significantly reversed by AZA, CAN, or TCBN. Our study provides novel insights into the direct effects of C. neoformans on BECs in vitro, and the potential benefits of using AZA, CAN, or TCBN in the management of CM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz H Alanazi
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 30907, USA; Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30901, USA
| | - Daniel B Chastain
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, University of Georgia College of Pharmacy, SWGA Clinical Campus, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, GA, 31701, USA
| | - Madhuri Rudraraju
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 30907, USA; Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30901, USA
| | - Varun Parvathagiri
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 30907, USA; Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30901, USA
| | - Shengshuai Shan
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 30907, USA; Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30901, USA
| | - Xiaorong Lin
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Andrés F Henao-Martínez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA
| | - Carlos Franco-Paredes
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO, 80523, USA; Hospital Infantil de México, Federico Gómez, México City, 06720, Mexico
| | - S Priya Narayanan
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 30907, USA; Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30901, USA
| | - Payaningal R Somanath
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA, 30907, USA; Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA, 30901, USA.
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Stefani H, Gomes LLA, Moya FG. An unusual case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent host presenting with verrucous skin lesions. Med Mycol Case Rep 2023; 42:100606. [PMID: 37693214 PMCID: PMC10482876 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2023.100606] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2023] [Revised: 08/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Disseminated cryptococcosis, commonly linked to immunocompromised conditions like HIV infection, is exceedingly rare in immunocompetent individuals. This case report presents a rare case of disseminated cryptococcosis in an immunocompetent patient, who manifested with fever, weight loss, neurological manifestations, and distinct verrucous skin lesions. Mycological cultures and histopathological assessments were conducted, leading to the identification of Cryptococcus neoformans var. gattii within both lung and skin biopsies. This case highlights the significance of considering this yeast infection within immunocompetent individuals and the necessity for promptly initiating appropriate antifungal therapy to enhance patient outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heloi Stefani
- Federal University of São Paulo, Rua Sena Madureira, n.° 1.500 - Vila Clementino, São Paulo, SP, 04021-001, Brazil
| | | | - Fernanda Gonçalves Moya
- Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo, R. Dr. Ovídio Pires de Campos, 225, Cerqueira César, São Paulo, SP, 05403-010, Brazil
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Yeung CM, Fabbri N. Disseminated Cryptococcus infection presenting as lytic skeletal lesions suggesting bony metastatic disease. Skeletal Radiol 2023:10.1007/s00256-023-04442-0. [PMID: 37749413 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-023-04442-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 08/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/26/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
A 76-year-old male diagnosed with sarcoidosis presented with atraumatic left anterior knee pain. Initial imaging of the left lower extremity revealed an eccentrically-based lytic lesion in the mid-distal femur with cortical erosion and an additional lytic lesion in the proximal tibia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated an aggressive lesion in the proximal tibia with surrounding marrow edema, cortical breach, and erosion into the distal patellar tendon. Given concern for metastatic bone lesions, a18-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography scan (FDG PET/CT) was performed which demonstrated concordant hypermetabolic lytic lesions at the left mid-distal femur and the left proximal tibia, as well as hypermetabolic diffuse lymphadenopathy. The patient was presumed to have metastatic lung cancer based on the presence of lung nodules. Due to concern for impending pathologic fracture, the patient underwent open biopsy with a plan for prophylactic fixation of both lesions. Intra-operatively, however, both lesions were found to contain pus, from which cultures ultimately grew Cryptococcus neoformans. This is a case of disseminated skeletal cryptococcosis masquerading as metastatic cancer in a patient without classic risk factors for disseminated cryptococcosis (defined as extrapulmonary evidence of infection). Classically, disseminated cryptococcosis is thought to occur in severely immunocompromised patients, such as those with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or organ transplant recipients. This case highlights the need to maintain a high index of suspicion in patients with underlying immunocompromising conditions, including less common conditions such as sarcoid, who present with bony lesions. This case report then discusses the diagnostic evaluation and treatment of disseminated skeletal cryptococcosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caleb M Yeung
- Department of Surgery, Orthopaedic Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, H-10, New York, NY, 10065, USA
| | - Nicola Fabbri
- Department of Surgery, Orthopaedic Service, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, 1275 York Avenue, H-10, New York, NY, 10065, USA.
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Chen S, Yu G, Chen M, You Y, Gu L, Wang Q, Wang H, Lai G, Yu Z, Wen W. Comparison of different therapeutic approaches for pulmonary cryptococcosis in kidney transplant recipients: a 15-year retrospective analysis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2023; 10:1107330. [PMID: 37484845 PMCID: PMC10361058 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2023.1107330] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Organ transplant recipients are at increased risk of developing pulmonary cryptococcosis (PC) due to weakened cell-mediated immunity caused by immunosuppressors. However, the nonspecific symptoms associated with PC can often lead to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of data from 23 kidney transplant recipients with PC between April 2006 to January 2021. Results The median time from transplantation to the diagnosis of pathology-proven PC 4.09 years. Seventeen patients presented respiratory symptoms, including sputum-producing cough and dyspnea. Additionally, three patients also developed central nervous system (CNS) infections. Chest CT scans frequently revealed nodule-shaped lesions, which can mimic lung carcinoma. Serological tests did not demonstrate any specific changes. Nine patients received surgical resection as treatment. Fourteen patients were treated with antifungal medication only. No recurrence was observed in all 23 patients. Conclusion Our study suggests that fever and sputum-producing cough are common symptoms of PC, and cryptococcal meningitis should not be excluded if corresponding symptoms occur. Fluconazole is a common and effective antifungal agent. Surgical resection should be considered for patients who do not respond well to antifungal therapy. Clinicians should be aware of these findings when evaluating transplant recipients with respiratory symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyang Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guoqing Yu
- Department of Nephrology, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
| | - Meiyan Chen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
| | - Yanjing You
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
| | - Lei Gu
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing, China
| | - Qing Wang
- The Third Affiliated People’s Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Fuzhou, China
| | - Huijuan Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
| | - Guoxiang Lai
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zongyang Yu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
| | - Wen Wen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Fuzhou General Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Dongfang Hospital of Xiamen University, The 900th Hospital of the Joint Logistic Support Force, Fuzhou, China
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de Almeida Campos L, Fin MT, Santos KS, de Lima Gualque MW, Freire Cabral AKL, Khalil NM, Fusco-Almeida AM, Mainardes RM, Mendes-Giannini MJS. Nanotechnology-Based Approaches for Voriconazole Delivery Applied to Invasive Fungal Infections. Pharmaceutics 2023; 15:pharmaceutics15010266. [PMID: 36678893 PMCID: PMC9863752 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics15010266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/09/2022] [Accepted: 12/20/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Invasive fungal infections increase mortality and morbidity rates worldwide. The treatment of these infections is still limited due to the low bioavailability and toxicity, requiring therapeutic monitoring, especially in the most severe cases. Voriconazole is an azole widely used to treat invasive aspergillosis, other hyaline molds, many dematiaceous molds, Candida spp., including those resistant to fluconazole, and for infections caused by endemic mycoses, in addition to those that occur in the central nervous system. However, despite its broad activity, using voriconazole has limitations related to its non-linear pharmacokinetics, leading to supratherapeutic doses and increased toxicity according to individual polymorphisms during its metabolism. In this sense, nanotechnology-based drug delivery systems have successfully improved the physicochemical and biological aspects of different classes of drugs, including antifungals. In this review, we highlighted recent work that has applied nanotechnology to deliver voriconazole. These systems allowed increased permeation and deposition of voriconazole in target tissues from a controlled and sustained release in different routes of administration such as ocular, pulmonary, oral, topical, and parenteral. Thus, nanotechnology application aiming to delivery voriconazole becomes a more effective and safer therapeutic alternative in the treatment of fungal infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laís de Almeida Campos
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Midwest State University (UNICENTRO), Alameda Élio Antonio Dalla Vecchia St, 838, Guarapuava 85040-167, PR, Brazil
| | - Margani Taise Fin
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Midwest State University (UNICENTRO), Alameda Élio Antonio Dalla Vecchia St, 838, Guarapuava 85040-167, PR, Brazil
| | - Kelvin Sousa Santos
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rodovia Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14801-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Marcos William de Lima Gualque
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rodovia Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14801-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana Karla Lima Freire Cabral
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rodovia Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14801-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Najeh Maissar Khalil
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Midwest State University (UNICENTRO), Alameda Élio Antonio Dalla Vecchia St, 838, Guarapuava 85040-167, PR, Brazil
| | - Ana Marisa Fusco-Almeida
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rodovia Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14801-902, SP, Brazil
| | - Rubiana Mara Mainardes
- Pharmaceutical Nanotechnology Laboratory, Department of Pharmacy, Midwest State University (UNICENTRO), Alameda Élio Antonio Dalla Vecchia St, 838, Guarapuava 85040-167, PR, Brazil
- Correspondence: (R.M.M.); (M.J.S.M.-G.)
| | - Maria José Soares Mendes-Giannini
- Department of Clinical Analysis, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rodovia Araraquara Jaú, Km 01, Araraquara 14801-902, SP, Brazil
- Correspondence: (R.M.M.); (M.J.S.M.-G.)
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Wen J, Yin R, Chang J, Chen Y, Dong X, Cao W, Ma X, Li T, Wei J. Short-term and long-term outcomes in patients with cryptococcal meningitis after ventriculoperitoneal shunt placement. Front Neurol 2022; 13:773334. [PMID: 36468057 PMCID: PMC9712185 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.773334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to assess the short-term and long-term outcomes of ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS) placement in patients with cryptococcal meningitis (CM). METHODS We performed a retrospective analysis of all patients with CM admitted to the Peking Union Medical College Hospital from September 1990 to January 2021. We collected related clinical features to analyze the short- and long-term outcomes of VPS at 1 month and 1 year at least the following therapy, respectively. Overall survival (OS) was compared with all patients and a subgroup of critically ill cases by the Kaplan-Meier method with the log-rank test. Univariable and multivariable analyses were also performed using the Cox proportional hazard model to identify statistically significant prognostic factors. RESULTS We enrolled 98 patients, fifteen of whom underwent VPS. Those who received VPS had a lower cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) Cryptococcus burden (1:1 vs. 1:16; p = 0.046), lower opening pressures (173.3 mmH2 O vs. 224 mmH2O; p = 0.009) at lumbar punctures, and a lower incidence of critical cases (6.7 vs. 31.3%; p = 0.049). According to our long-term follow-up, no significant difference was shown in the Barthel Index (BI) between the two groups. Two patients in the VPS group suffered postoperative complications and had to go through another revision surgery. According to survival analysis, overall survival (OS) between the VPS and non-VPS groups was not significantly different. However, the Kaplan-Meier plots showed that critical patients with VPS had better survival in OS (p < 0.009). Multivariable analyses for critical patients showed VPS was an independent prognostic factor. CONCLUSION A VPS could reduce the intracranial pressure (ICP), decrease the counts of Cryptococcus neoformans by a faster rate and reduce the number of critical cases. The VPS used in critical patients with CM has a significant impact on survival, but it showed no improvement in the long-term Barthel Index (BI) vs. the conservative treatment and could lead to postoperative complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junxian Wen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Rui Yin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Jianbo Chang
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Yihao Chen
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiying Dong
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Cao
- Department of Infectious Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaojun Ma
- Department of Infectious Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Taisheng Li
- Department of Infectious Disease, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Junji Wei
- Department of Neurosurgery, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China
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Howard-Jones AR, Sparks R, Pham D, Halliday C, Beardsley J, Chen SCA. Pulmonary Cryptococcosis. J Fungi (Basel) 2022; 8:1156. [PMID: 36354923 PMCID: PMC9696922 DOI: 10.3390/jof8111156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 10/26/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary cryptococcosis describes an invasive lung mycosis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans or Cryptococcus gattii complex. It is often a high-consequence disease in both immunocompromised and immunocompetent populations, and may be misdiagnosed as pulmonary malignancy, leading to a delay in therapy. Epidemiology follows that of cryptococcal meningoencephalitis, with C. gattii infection more common in certain geographic regions. Diagnostic tools include histopathology, microscopy and culture, and the detection of cryptococcal polysaccharide antigen or Cryptococcus-derived nucleic acids. All patients with lung cryptococcosis should have a lumbar puncture and cerebral imaging to exclude central nervous system disease. Radiology is key, both as an adjunct to laboratory testing and as the initial means of detection in asymptomatic patients or those with non-specific symptoms. Pulmonary cryptococcomas (single or multiple) may also be associated with disseminated disease and/or cryptococcal meningitis, requiring prolonged treatment regimens. Optimal management for severe disease requires extended induction (amphotericin B and flucytosine) and consolidation therapy (fluconazole) with close clinical monitoring. Susceptibility testing is of value for epidemiology and in regions where relatively high minimum inhibitory concentrations to azoles (particularly fluconazole) have been noted. Novel diagnostic tools and therapeutic agents promise to improve the detection and treatment of cryptococcosis, particularly in low-income settings where the disease burden is high.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annaleise R. Howard-Jones
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Rebecca Sparks
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - David Pham
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Catriona Halliday
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Justin Beardsley
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
| | - Sharon C.-A. Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases & Microbiology Laboratory Services, New South Wales Health Pathology—Institute of Clinical Pathology & Medical Research, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, NSW 2145, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW 2145, Australia
- Sydney Institute for Infectious Diseases, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Alanazi AH, Adil MS, Lin X, Chastain DB, Henao-Martínez AF, Franco-Paredes C, Somanath PR. Elevated Intracranial Pressure in Cryptococcal Meningoencephalitis: Examining Old, New, and Promising Drug Therapies. Pathogens 2022; 11:783. [PMID: 35890028 PMCID: PMC9321092 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens11070783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite the availability of effective antifungal therapy, cryptococcal meningoencephalitis (CM) remains associated with elevated mortality. The spectrum of symptoms associated with the central nervous system (CNS) cryptococcosis is directly caused by the high fungal burden in the subarachnoid space and the peri-endothelial space of the CNS vasculature, which results in intracranial hypertension (ICH). Management of intracranial pressure (ICP) through aggressive drainage of cerebrospinal fluid by lumbar puncture is associated with increased survival. Unfortunately, these procedures are invasive and require specialized skills and supplies that are not readily available in resource-limited settings that carry the highest burden of CM. The institution of pharmacologic therapies to reduce the production or increase the resorption of cerebrospinal fluid would likely improve clinical outcomes associated with ICH in patients with CM. Here, we discuss the potential role of multiple pharmacologic drug classes such as diuretics, corticosteroids, and antiepileptic agents used to decrease ICP in various neurological conditions as potential future therapies for CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz H. Alanazi
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30902, USA; (A.H.A.); (M.S.A.)
- Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Mir S. Adil
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30902, USA; (A.H.A.); (M.S.A.)
- Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Xiaorong Lin
- Department of Microbiology, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA;
| | - Daniel B. Chastain
- Department of Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy, UGA College of Pharmacy, SWGA Clinical Campus, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, GA 31701, USA;
| | - Andrés F. Henao-Martínez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (A.F.H.-M.); (C.F.-P.)
| | - Carlos Franco-Paredes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (A.F.H.-M.); (C.F.-P.)
- Hospital Infantil de México, Federico Gómez, Ciudad de México 06720, Mexico
| | - Payaningal R. Somanath
- Clinical and Experimental Therapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Augusta, GA 30902, USA; (A.H.A.); (M.S.A.)
- Research Department, Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
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Wang F, Wang Y, He J, Cheng Z, Wu S, Wang M, Niu T. Clinical Characteristics and Risk Factors for Mortality in Cryptococcal Meningitis: Evidence From a Cohort Study. Front Neurol 2022; 13:779435. [PMID: 35572932 PMCID: PMC9098999 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.779435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Despite advances in the diagnosis and management, cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is still associated with high mortality due to insufficient knowledge about clinical characteristics and risk factors for poor outcomes. The aim of the present study is to provide additional evidence for regarding clinical characteristics, diagnosis, and factors associated with increased risk of mortality in CM patients. Methods In this cohort study, we included eligible patients consecutively admitted to West China Hospital between January 2009 and December 2018. The clinical characteristics and diagnosis method of cerebrospinal fluid culture and India ink stain were analyzed. Independent risk factors were identified by a multivariable logistic regression. Results A total of 186 CM patients were included in the analysis. After a 1-year follow-up, 63 patients had died. Headache is the most common presenting symptom (97.3%), followed by vomiting (72%), fever (71.5%), altered consciousness (45.7%), abnormal vision (32.8%), and seizure (15.1%). Older age, altered consciousness or seizures, lower white blood cell count or total protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and unidentified CSF cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) are all factors associated with increasing risk of death (P < 0.05). We also found a dose-dependent trend between the number of symptoms and risk of death (trend p < 0.001). Multivariate logistic regression revealed that age (P = 0.004, OR = 1.042, 95% CI 1.013–1.071), seizure (P = 0.025, OR = 3.105, 95% CI 1.152–8.369), altered consciousness (P < 0.001, OR=6.858, 95% CI 3.063–15.38), and unidentified CSF CrAg are the independent prognostic factors. In addition, we observed that diagnosis of 28.5% and 22.5% CM could not be established by a single testing of CSF India ink stain or culture, respectively. Use of multiple testing methods or combination of the two assays increases the detection rate. Conclusion Our data show that older age, seizures, altered consciousness, and an inability to detect CSF CrAg are the independent risk factors of death within 1 year in CM patients. Moreover, we recommend use of multiple testing methods with CSF culture and India ink stain. Combined testing with both assays should be considered for initial CM diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fengjuan Wang
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Jianqing He
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Zhe Cheng
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Shouquan Wu
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Minggui Wang
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Ting Niu
- Department of Hematology and Research Laboratory of Hematology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- *Correspondence: Ting Niu
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Faruq R, Plichtova L, Bhagat N, Saul Z. A Case of Cryptococcal Meningitis and Fungemia With Relapse in an HIV-Negative, Non-transplant Patient on Azathioprine Therapy for Mixed Connective Tissue Disorder. Cureus 2022; 14:e24356. [PMID: 35607540 PMCID: PMC9123404 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.24356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis typically occurs in immunocompromised patients. Approximately 80% of cryptococcal infections occur in HIV patients. Non-HIV, non-transplant recipient patients are the least numerous population groups affected by cryptococcal infections. While this group includes patients on biologics and corticosteroids, very few cases have been reported in patients on azathioprine. Cryptococcal meningitis requires antifungal therapy, the duration of which varies among different population groups. Inadequate duration of antibiotics among these groups is one of the most common reasons for relapse; therefore, it is crucial to consider patient demographic when determining antifungal duration. Here, we report a 68-year-old male with a history of mixed connective tissue disease on azathioprine for six years, who was admitted to the hospital with worsening lethargy. Several days into admission, the patient developed low-grade fevers. Subsequent blood cultures grew Cryptococcus neoformans. He was started on liposomal amphotericin B. Lumbar puncture (LP) was done, which demonstrated positive cryptococcal antigen, and flucytosine was added to the treatment regimen. Repeat CSF culture demonstrated no fungal organisms. Amphotericin B was discontinued after 20 days of therapy. Following clinical improvement, he was subsequently discharged on oral fluconazole. One week following discharge, the patient was readmitted with worsening fevers and altered mental status. CSF studies demonstrated the growth of Cryptococcus on culture. Liposomal amphotericin B was reinitiated, and fluconazole was continued. Imaging showed hydrocephalus, which worsened despite ventriculoperitoneal shunt. The patient expired following transition to comfort care. In conclusion, cryptococcal meningitis should be considered as a differential in non-HIV, non-transplant patients on azathioprine presenting with fever and worsening lethargy, and 4-6 weeks of induction therapy is required in this patient group to prevent relapse.
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Nelles R, Britton S, John GT, Denaro C. Parkinsonism and prolonged cognitive decline as a manifestation of cryptococcal meningitis in a renal transplant patient. BMJ Case Rep 2022; 15:e245788. [PMID: 35046073 PMCID: PMC8772404 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2021-245788] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
We report a case of a 67-year-old male recipient of a second renal allograft, presenting with a 9-month history of progressive cognitive and physical decline with features of Parkinsonism. He was HIV-negative. Serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cryptococcal antigen was positive though CSF culture was sterile. He had progressive deterioration despite induction and consolidation antifungal treatment. Postmortem brain examination confirmed a large burden of yeast forms in the substantia nigra with widespread chronic meningitis. The significant delay in presentation and diagnosis owing to the atypical, subacute neurocognitive features serves as a timely reminder of the variety of neurological presentations that may be associated with cryptococcal infection in solid organ transplant recipients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricky Nelles
- Haematology, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia
| | - Sumudu Britton
- Infectious Disease Unit, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - George Tharayil John
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- Renal Unit, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
| | - Charles Denaro
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland Faculty of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Herston, Queensland, Australia
- Department of Internal Medicine & Aged Care, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Herston, Queensland, Australia
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Mohammed R, Nader SM, Hamza DA, Sabry MA. Horse: a potential source of Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii in Egypt. BMC Vet Res 2022; 18:17. [PMID: 34983525 PMCID: PMC8725405 DOI: 10.1186/s12917-021-03127-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic mycozoonosis of global significance in a wide variety of host species. In equines, cryptococcosis is uncommon, and sporadic cases have been reported with rhinitis, sinusitis, pneumonia, and meningitis. Cryptococcus spp. represents a potential risk for immunosuppressed and healthy persons. In Egypt, epidemiological data on cryptococcal infection in horses are limited. The current study was carried out to investigate the occurrence of Cryptococcus spp. in horses and its possible role in the epidemiology of such disease in Egypt. A total of 223 samples was collected from different localities in Egypt included 183 nasal swabs from horses, 28 nasal swabs from humans, and 12 soil samples. Bacteriological examination and the identification of Cryptococcus spp. were performed. Molecular serotyping of Cryptococcus spp. was determined by multiplex PCR using CNa-70S/A-CNb-49S/A. The virulence genes (LAC1, CAP59, and PLB1) of the identified isolates were detected by PCR. Moreover, sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the C. gattii gene from horses, humans, and soil isolates found nearby were performed. Result The overall occurrence of Cryptococcus spp. in horses were 9.3, 25, and 10.7% in horses, the soil, and humans, respectively. Molecular serotyping of the Cryptococcus spp. isolates recovered from the nasal passages of horses proved that C. gattii (B), C. neoformans, and two hybrids between C. neoformans (A) and C. gattii (B) were identified. Meanwhile, in case of soil samples, the isolates were identified as C. gattii (B). The human isolates were serotyped as C. gattii in two isolates and C. neoformans in only one isolate. Molecular detection of some virulence genes (LAC1), (CAP59), and (PLB1) were identified in both C. gattii and C. neoformans isolates. The C. gattii gene amplicons of the isolates from horses, humans, and the soil were closely related. Conclusion This study provides the first insights into the Egyptian horse ecology of Cryptococcus species and highlights the role of horses as asymptomatic carriers in disseminating the potentially pathogenic Cryptococcus spp. It also presents the possible risk of cryptococcosis infection in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahma Mohammed
- Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, PO Box 12211, Giza, Egypt
| | - Sara M Nader
- Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, PO Box 12211, Giza, Egypt
| | - Dalia A Hamza
- Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, PO Box 12211, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Maha A Sabry
- Department of Zoonoses, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, PO Box 12211, Giza, Egypt
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Xu X, Cao L, Wang Y, Liu J, Dong Q, Liang C, Jiang Y, Peng F. Clinical profile and outcome of non-HIV-infected patients with cryptococcal meningitisand malignancy. J Mycol Med 2022; 32:101250. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mycmed.2022.101250] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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Chastain DB, Henao-Martínez AF, Dykes AC, Steele GM, Stoudenmire LL, Thomas GM, Kung V, Franco-Paredes C. Missed opportunities to identify cryptococcosis in COVID-19 patients: a case report and literature review. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2022; 9:20499361211066363. [PMID: 35070297 PMCID: PMC8771738 DOI: 10.1177/20499361211066363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
SARS-CoV-2 may activate both innate and adaptive immune responses ultimately leading to a dysregulated immune response prompting the use of immunomodulatory therapy. Although viral pneumonia increases the risk of invasive fungal infections, it remains unclear whether SARS-CoV-2 infection, immunomodulatory therapy, or a combination of both are responsible for the increased recognition of opportunistic infections in COVID-19 patients. Cases of cryptococcosis have previously been reported following treatment with corticosteroids, interleukin (IL)-6 inhibitors, and Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, for patients with autoimmune diseases, but their effect on the immunologic response in patients with COVID-19 remains unknown. Herein, we present the case of a patient with COVID-19 who received high-dose corticosteroids and was later found to have cryptococcosis despite no traditional risk factors. As our case and previous cases of cryptococcosis in patients with COVID-19 demonstrate, clinicians must be suspicious of cryptococcosis in COVID-19 patients who clinically deteriorate following treatment with immunomodulatory therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B. Chastain
- Department of Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, 1000 Jefferson Street, Albany, GA 31701, USA
| | - Andrés F. Henao-Martínez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Austin C. Dykes
- Department of Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Albany, GA, USA
| | - Gregory M. Steele
- Infectious Diseases, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, GA, USA
| | | | - Geren M. Thomas
- Department of Pharmacy, John D. Archbold Memorial Hospital, Thomasville, GA, USA
| | - Vanessa Kung
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Carlos Franco-Paredes
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO, USAHospital Infantil de México, Federico Gómez, México City, México
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21
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Chastain DB, Golpayegany S, Henao-Martínez AF, Jackson BT, Stoudenmire LL, Bell K, Stover KR, Franco-Paredes C. Cryptococcosis in a patient with multiple myeloma receiving pomalidomide: a case report and literature review. Ther Adv Infect Dis 2022; 9:20499361221112639. [PMID: 35898694 PMCID: PMC9310278 DOI: 10.1177/20499361221112639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
While overall survival with multiple myeloma (MM) has improved, patients suffer from overwhelming tumor burden, MM-associated comorbidities, and frequent relapses requiring administration of salvage therapies. As a result, this vicious cycle is often characterized by cumulative immunodeficiency stemming from a combination of disease- and treatment-related factors leading to neutropenia, T-cell deficiency, and hypogammaglobulinemia. Infectious etiologies differ based on the duration of MM and treatment-related factors, such as number of previous treatments and cumulative dose of corticosteroids. Herein, we present the case of a patient who was receiving pomalidomide without concomitant corticosteroids for MM and was later found to have cryptococcosis, as well as findings from a literature review. Most cases of cryptococcosis are reported in patients with late-stage MM, as well as those receiving novel anti-myeloma agents, such as pomalidomide, in combination with corticosteroids or following transplantation. However, it is likely cryptococcosis may be underdiagnosed in this population. Due to the cumulative immunodeficiency present in patients with MM, clinicians must be suspicious of cryptococcosis at any stage of MM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Chastain
- Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, 1000 Jefferson Street, Albany, GA 31701, USA
| | - Sahand Golpayegany
- Department of Clinical & Administrative Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Georgia, Albany, GA, USA
| | | | | | | | - Kaye Bell
- Department of Microbiology, Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, Albany, GA, USA
| | - Kayla R Stover
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, University of Mississippi, Jackson, MS, USA
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22
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Comprehensive Analysis and Risk Identification of Pulmonary Cryptococcosis in Non-HIV Patients. J Fungi (Basel) 2021; 7:jof7080657. [PMID: 34436197 PMCID: PMC8399630 DOI: 10.3390/jof7080657] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Pulmonary cryptococcosis in the non-human immunodeficiency virus-infected population is uncommon. We aimed to explore the relevance between clinical presentations, radiological findings, and comorbidities and identify the outcome predictors. A total of 321 patients at Taichung Veterans General Hospital between 2005 and 2019 were included; of them, 204 (63.6%) had at least one comorbidity, while 67 (20.9%) had two or more. The most common comorbidities were diabetes mellitus (27.4%), malignant solid tumor (19.6%), autoimmune disease (15.6%), and chronic kidney disease (8.4%). Patients experiencing comorbidity, particularly those with multiple comorbidities, had a higher multilobar and extrapulmonary involvement, which could explain these patients being more symptomatic. In the overall population, extrapulmonary involvement independently predicted disease recurrence and death. Amongst patients with isolated pulmonary cryptococcosis, age, cryptococcal antigen (CrAg) titer in blood, and comorbidities not only predicted the extent of disease, but also its outcome. Of note, patients simultaneously with age ≥ 65 years, CrAg test ≥ 1:128, and multiple comorbidities had the lowest disease control of antifungal treatment (76.9%) and the highest rate of disease recurrence or death from any cause (40.0%). In conclusion, approximately two-thirds of patients had at least one underlying comorbidity. In addition to extrapulmonary involvement, old age, high CrAg titer in blood, and multiple comorbidities could act as risk factors for predicting the extent of disease and outcome.
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23
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Zhao J, Weng W, Chen C, Zhang J. The prevalence and mortality of cryptococcal meningitis in patients with autoimmune diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2021; 40:2515-2523. [PMID: 34258688 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-021-04293-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Growing evidence suggests that autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are risk factors for cryptococcal meningitis (CM). Therefore, understanding the epidemiological and clinical profile of CM in patients with AIDs is important. This meta-analysis assessed the prevalence, clinical profiles, and clinical outcomes of CM in AIDs. Studies on CM in patients with AIDs were searched for in PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and meta-analyses were performed using the statistical program of R. Nineteen studies with 36,631 patients with AIDs were analyzed. The overall pooled CM prevalence was 0.4% (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.3-0.6%), 90.7% of which occurred in female patients. Thirteen studies with 77 patients with AIDs diagnosed with CM were analyzed, and the mortality rate was 26.7% (95% CI, 9.5-47.2%). Of patients with systemic lupus erythematosus, 30.1% of CM cases were initially misdiagnosed (95% CI, 0-65.6%). The primary symptom of CM with AIDs was headache (99.4%; 95% CI, 92.1-100%), followed by fever (93.7%; 95% CI, 82.8-100%) and vomiting (37.2%; 95% CI, 13.2-61.2%). The prevalence of CM infections among patients with AIDs should not be underestimated despite non-specific clinical presentations as there were fatal outcomes. Our results suggest that more research is needed to understand the relationship between AIDs and CM, and clinical trials are necessary to improve treatment strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhao
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Weipin Weng
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Chunli Chen
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jie Zhang
- Department of Neurology, The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University, Changsha, China.
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24
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Li Y, Lu Y, Nie J, Liu M, Yuan J, Li Y, Li H, Chen Y. Potential Predictors and Survival Analysis of the Relapse of HIV-Associated Cryptococcal Meningitis: A Retrospective Study. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:626266. [PMID: 34041249 PMCID: PMC8141581 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.626266] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: We intend to investigate the relapse of HIV-associated cryptococcal meningitis (CM), assess potential predictors and conduct survival analysis, with a view to establishing a valid reference for the management of the relapse of CM. Method: This is a retrospective study in Chinese patients with HIV-associated CM and those who experience relapse of CM. Baseline demographic, laboratory and clinical characteristics of patients with HIV-associated CM were collected. Predictors for relapse of HIV-associated CM were analyzed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Survival probability in relapse cases was determined by Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Results: During the study period, 87 of 348 (25.0%) HIV patients experienced the relapse of CM. CD4+ T-cell counts, antiretroviral therapy (ART) status and the time from symptom onset to presentation were all statistically associated with the relapse of CM (p = 0.013, 0.018 and 0.042, respectively). The overall survival among 46 HIV CM relapse patients whose survival information were obtained, was 78.3%. The proportion of patients who died after antifungal treatment for CM was greater in those whose interval from symptom onset to presentation ≥4 weeks, compared with those <4 weeks (p = 0.0331). Conclusions: In order to reduce the relapse of CM and increase the survival possibility of these patients, we can promote the importance of ART before CM occurs, emphasize timely consultation when any CM-associated clinical symptoms occurs, and individualized the timing of ART initiation according to indicators which can reflect the severity of CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Li
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Yanqiu Lu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Jingmin Nie
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Min Liu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Jing Yuan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Yan Li
- Department of Hygiene Toxicology, School of Public Health, Zunyi Medical University, Zunyi Guizhou, China
| | - Huan Li
- Division of Respiratory Geriatrics, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
| | - Yaokai Chen
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Chongqing Public Health Medical Center, Chongqing, China
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25
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Khan MA. Targeted Drug Delivery Using Tuftsin-bearing Liposomes: Implications in the Treatment of Infectious Diseases and Tumors. Curr Drug Targets 2021; 22:770-778. [PMID: 33243117 DOI: 10.2174/1389450121999201125200756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Tuftsin, a tetrapeptide (Thr-Lys-Pro-Arg), acts as an immunopotentiating molecule with its ability to bind and activate many immune cells, including macrophages or monocytes, neutrophils and dendritic cells. The specific targeting activity of tuftsin has been further increased by its palmitoylation followed by its incorporation into the lipid bilayer of liposomes. Tuftsin-bearing liposomes (Tuft-liposomes) possess several characteristics that enable them to act as a potential drug and vaccine carriers. Tuft-liposomes-loaded anti-microbial drugs have been shown to be highly effective against many infectious diseases, including tuberculosis, leishmaniasis, malaria, candidiasis and cryptococosis. Moreover, Tuft-liposomes also increased the activity of anticancer drug etoposide against fibrosarcoma in mice. Tuft-liposomes showed the immune-potentiating effect and rejuvenated the immune cells in the leukopenic mice. In addition, antigens encapsulated in Tuftsin-bearing liposomes demonstrated greater immunogenicity by increasing the T cell proliferation and antibody secretion. Keeping into consideration their specific targeting and immunopotentiating effects, Tuft-liposomes may potentially be used as promising drug and vaccine delivery systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masood Alam Khan
- Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences, Qassim University, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia
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26
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Rewak-Soroczynska J, Sobierajska P, Targonska S, Piecuch A, Grosman L, Rachuna J, Wasik S, Arabski M, Ogorek R, Wiglusz RJ. New Approach to Antifungal Activity of Fluconazole Incorporated into the Porous 6-Anhydro-α-l-Galacto-β-d-Galactan Structures Modified with Nanohydroxyapatite for Chronic-Wound Treatments-In Vitro Evaluation. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:3112. [PMID: 33803717 PMCID: PMC8003069 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22063112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
New fluconazole-loaded, 6-Anhydro-α-l-Galacto-β-d-Galactan hydrogels incorporated with nanohydroxyapatite were prepared and their physicochemical features (XRD, X-ray Diffraction; SEM-EDS, Scanning Electron Microscopy-Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy; ATR-FTIR, Attenuated Total Reflectance-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), fluconazole release profiles and enzymatic degradation were determined. Antifungal activity of pure fluconazole was tested using Candida species (C. albicans, C. tropicalis, C. glabarata), Cryptococcus species (C. neoformans, C. gatti) and Rhodotorula species (R. mucilaginosa, R. rubra) reference strains and clinical isolates. Standard microdilution method was applied, and fluconazole concentrations of 2-250 µg/mL were tested. Moreover, biofilm production ability of tested isolates was tested on the polystyrene surface at 28 and 37 ± 0.5 °C and measured after crystal violet staining. Strains with the highest biofilm production ability were chosen for further analysis. Confocal microscopy photographs were taken after live/dead staining of fungal suspensions incubated with tested hydrogels (with and without fluconazole). Performed analyses confirmed that polymeric hydrogels are excellent drug carriers and, when fluconazole-loaded, they may be applied as the prevention of chronic wounds fungal infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Rewak-Soroczynska
- Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okolna 2, 50-422 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.R.-S.); (P.S.); (S.T.); (L.G.)
| | - Paulina Sobierajska
- Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okolna 2, 50-422 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.R.-S.); (P.S.); (S.T.); (L.G.)
| | - Sara Targonska
- Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okolna 2, 50-422 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.R.-S.); (P.S.); (S.T.); (L.G.)
| | - Agata Piecuch
- Department of Mycology and Genetics, University of Wroclaw, Przybyszewskiego 63, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.P.); (R.O.)
| | - Lukasz Grosman
- Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okolna 2, 50-422 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.R.-S.); (P.S.); (S.T.); (L.G.)
| | - Jaroslaw Rachuna
- Institute of Biology, Jan Kochanowski University, Uniwersytecka 7, 25-406 Kielce, Poland; (J.R.); (M.A.)
| | - Slawomir Wasik
- Institute of Physics, Jan Kochanowski University, Swietokrzyska 15, 25-406 Kielce, Poland;
| | - Michal Arabski
- Institute of Biology, Jan Kochanowski University, Uniwersytecka 7, 25-406 Kielce, Poland; (J.R.); (M.A.)
| | - Rafal Ogorek
- Department of Mycology and Genetics, University of Wroclaw, Przybyszewskiego 63, 51-148 Wroclaw, Poland; (A.P.); (R.O.)
| | - Rafal J. Wiglusz
- Institute of Low Temperature and Structure Research, Polish Academy of Sciences, Okolna 2, 50-422 Wroclaw, Poland; (J.R.-S.); (P.S.); (S.T.); (L.G.)
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27
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Mtibaa L, Beji I, Ayoub M, Baccouchi N, Hannechi S, Aouni Z, Abid R, Mazigh C, Battikh R, Jemli B. Neuromeningeal cryptoccocosis revealing IgA-λ multiple myeloma. Med Mycol Case Rep 2021; 32:30-33. [PMID: 33717863 PMCID: PMC7932882 DOI: 10.1016/j.mmcr.2021.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2020] [Revised: 02/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic fungal infection that is commonly associated with an immune-compromised state. Cases of cryptococcosis have rarely been reported in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). However, cryptococcosis as a presenting symptom of MM has never been reported. We presented here a case of neuromeningeal cryptococcosis in a patient without underlying diseases, who has revealed IgA-λ MM. Early detection and treatment of cryptococcosis are essential to reduce morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Latifa Mtibaa
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Imen Beji
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Manel Ayoub
- Biochemistry Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Nawel Baccouchi
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Souha Hannechi
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Zied Aouni
- Biochemistry Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Rym Abid
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Chakib Mazigh
- Biochemistry Department, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Riadh Battikh
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Boutheina Jemli
- Laboratory of Parasitology-Mycology, Military Hospital of Tunis, 1008, Monfleury, Tunis, Tunisia
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28
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Motoa G, Powers HR, Brumble LM. Disseminated cryptococcosis in a patient with newly diagnosed HTLV-1 infection. BMJ Case Rep 2021; 14:14/1/e235794. [PMID: 33509855 PMCID: PMC7845708 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2020-235794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Infection by human T-lymphotropic virus 1 (HTLV-1) is often seen as the cause of chronic infection or lymphoproliferative disorders, but many clinicians do not recognise its association with severe immunosuppression. We report the case of a woman in her 70s from the Caribbean who sought care at the emergency department for weakness, fatigue and weight loss. Further work-up showed atypical lymphocytosis with floral lymphocytes and smudge cells in the peripheral blood smear and hypercalcaemia. Chest CT demonstrated a moderate right pleural effusion. Results of HIV testing were negative, and screening and confirmatory tests for HTLV-1 were positive. Empiric antibiotic therapy was administered, and the patient was discharged home. Five days later, she was readmitted with shortness of breath and severe abdominal pain. A disseminated infection with Cryptococcus neoformans was diagnosed. Despite aggressive intravenous antifungal therapy, the patient died on day 7 of hospitalisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel Motoa
- Division Of Allery and Pulmonary Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Harry Ross Powers
- Divsion Of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
| | - Lisa M Brumble
- Divsion Of Infectious Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida, USA
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29
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Cai Q, Wang H, Ruan S, Zhu M, Duan J, Sun S, Sheng J. AAIT: A novel prognostic model for HIV-negative patients with cryptococcal meningoencephalitis New Scoring Model for Non-HIV Patients with CM. Med Mycol 2020; 59:myaa095. [PMID: 33305321 DOI: 10.1093/mmy/myaa095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is a common opportunistic infection in HIV-negative patients, with mortality rates as high as those in the HIV-negative population. This requires accurate initial clinical decision-making, warranting the development of a prognostic score. Two groups of patients were investigated separately to develop a novel prognostic model (AAIT) for HIV-negative patients with CM. A retrospective analysis of 201 HIV-negative patients with CM was conducted to develop the CM prognostic score. In addition, the CM cohort (n = 21) was recruited longitudinally to verify the new prognostic score. Meanwhile, the association between the prognostic score and 1-year mortality of CM was expounded. AAIT (age, albumin, combined bacterial infection, and total triiodothyronine) is a novel prognostic score based on age, albumin level, combined bacterial infection, and total triiodothyronine (TT3) level, which were significantly higher in nonsurvivors than in survivors (0.68 [-0.70 to 1.55] vs - 1.72 [-3.75 to -0.73], P < .00). Regarding the AAIT-predicted 1-year mortality, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) value was 0.857, whereas it was 0.965 for the validation cohort. In the induction period, different treatment options did not seem to significantly improve the 1-year survival rate. AAIT is a straightforward and clear prognostic score that can add value to predict the outcomes in HIV-negative patients with CM. In addition, controlling infection and increasing the albumin and TT3 levels may help improve clinical outcomes in HIV-negative patients with CM. LAY ABSTRACT AAIT (age, albumin, combined bacterial infection, and total triiodothyronine) is a straightforward and clear prognostic score that can add value to predict the outcomes HIV-negative patients with CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qun Cai
- Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Rd, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Hao Wang
- Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Rd, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Sihan Ruan
- Taizhou Central Hospital (Taizhou University Hospital), 999 donghai avenue, jiaojiang district, taizhou city, zhejiang province, China
| | - Mingyan Zhu
- Department of Infectious Disease, The Affiliated Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Chaohu, Hefei, 238000, China
| | - Jinnan Duan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Rd, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Shanshan Sun
- Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Rd, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, China
| | - Jifang Sheng
- Department of Infectious Diseases, State Key Laboratory for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, National Clinical Research Center for Infectious Diseases, Collaborative Innovation Center for Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases, The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Rd, Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, 310003, China
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30
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Tirado-Sánchez A, Franco-Paredes C, Bonifaz A. Subcutaneous Mycoses in Travelers. CURRENT TROPICAL MEDICINE REPORTS 2020; 7:141-152. [PMID: 35665217 PMCID: PMC9162435 DOI: 10.1007/s40475-020-00216-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Purpose of Review The increase in international travel in recent decades has contributed to the risk of acquiring diseases considered endemic to a region or country and the change in the epidemiology of these diseases. Endemic mycoses that may be acquired by travelers in the short or long term are endemic subcutaneous mycoses such as sporotrichosis and lobomycosis, while endemic systemic mycoses are a group of serious diseases including histoplasmosis and coccidioidomycosis. Herein, we review the current knowledge and highlight the most important aspects of these fungal infections in travelers. Recent Findings The most relevant advances in the study of these mycoses involve the epidemiological distribution; human mycoses can be fatal and there are few antifungal drugs available, increasing drug resistance, and a risk of emerging fungal diseases associated with climate change, as well as the increasing virulence, and the diagnostic strategies that may be limited in many countries. Summary Although endemic mycoses are relatively rare, they should be considered as potentially travel-related illnesses. A recent or late trip to an endemic country may guide the clinical suspicion, an early diagnosis, and the institution of effective therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Tirado-Sánchez
- Dermatology Service & Micology Department, Hospital General de México “Dr Eduardo Liceaga”, Dr. Balmis 148, colonia Doctores, PZ: 06720 Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Carlos Franco-Paredes
- Department of Medicine, Division of Infectious Diseases, Anschutz Medical Center, University of Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
- Instituto Nacional de Salud, Hospital Infantil de México, Federico Gómez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Alexandro Bonifaz
- Dermatology Service & Micology Department, Hospital General de México “Dr Eduardo Liceaga”, Dr. Balmis 148, colonia Doctores, PZ: 06720 Mexico City, Mexico
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31
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Serraj K, Alaoui H, El Oumri AA, Barrimi M, Bachir H. Effective Voriconazole in an Immunocompetent Patient With Amphotericin B Resistant Systemic Cryptococcal Granulomatosis. Cureus 2020; 12:e11101. [PMID: 33240697 PMCID: PMC7681776 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.11101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
The diagnostic management of systemic granulomatosis is a difficult clinical exercise. The most frequent etiologies are tuberculosis and sarcoidosis. However, it is important to search as well for the other causes of granulomas, especially infections and malignancies, the prognosis of which can be poor without adequate treatment. A 67-year-old immunocompetent patient presented with granulomatous adenitis without caseous necrosis. The etiological evaluation had revealed neurological, pulmonary and lymph node systemic cryptococcosis. Conventional antifungal therapy with the triple combination Amphotericin B - Flucytosine - Fluconazole has not been effective, indicating administration of voriconazole. The evolution was rapidly favorable with apyrexia after 48 hours, disappearance of clinical symptoms, normalization of biological parameters of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and major improvement of radiological abnormalities. This clinical case is original by the disseminated involvement, the patient's non-immunocompromised status and the primary resistance to amphotericin B. Our findings underline the importance of carrying out an exhaustive evaluation, reflecting on cryptococcosis in any systemic granulomatosis and knowing the various therapeutic alternatives, in particular, voriconazole if primary response to amphotericin B has not been obtained.
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32
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Mann S, Tobolowsky F, Purohit S, Henao-Martínez A, Bajrovic V, Ramanan P, Wolfel E, Khazanie P, Barron M, Madinger N, Benamu E. Cryptococcal pericarditis in a heart transplant recipient. Transpl Infect Dis 2020; 22:e13366. [PMID: 32533755 DOI: 10.1111/tid.13366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
We present a case of Cryptococcus neoformans pericarditis in a cardiac transplant recipient. This article reviews the diagnosis, treatment, and complications of cryptococcosis specifically in transplant patients. While pericarditis is a rare manifestation of Cryptococcus infection, this case highlights that cryptococcosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis for solid organ transplant and immunocompromised patients presenting with pericardial effusions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Mann
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Farrell Tobolowsky
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Suneet Purohit
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Andres Henao-Martínez
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Valida Bajrovic
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Poornima Ramanan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Eugene Wolfel
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Prateeti Khazanie
- Division of Cardiology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Michelle Barron
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Nancy Madinger
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Esther Benamu
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, USA
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Yang M, Cheng L, Sun F, Liu F, Feng W, Yao P, Weng B, Xia P. Comparison of cryptococcal meningitis in HIV-negative patients with and without lung infections. J Int Med Res 2020; 48:300060520929591. [PMID: 32527201 PMCID: PMC7294499 DOI: 10.1177/0300060520929591] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To investigate the clinical features and outcomes of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) in HIV-negative patients with and without lung infections. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of HIV-negative patients with CM admitted to two university hospitals in Southwest China over the past 5 years. Results Seventy-one patients were included, of whom 35 (49.3%) had lung disease. Compared with patients without lung infection, CM patients with lung infection tended to be male and younger (≤30 years), experienced more fever, less vomiting and fewer central nervous system symptoms; more often had low white blood cell (WBC) counts (<20 × 106/L), and fewer often had ethmoid sinusitis, maxillary sinusitis, paranasal sinusitis, and otitis media. Cryptococcus neoformans isolates from these patients were sensitive to itraconazole, voriconazole, fluconazole, and amphotericin B but resistant to flucytosine. CM patients with lung infection had higher mortality at discharge compared with patients without lung infection (8.6% vs. 0%). Multivariable analyses showed that a WBC count <20 × 106/L was significantly associated with poor treatment outcome (odds ratio 0.01, 95% confidence interval 0–0.83). Conclusion HIV-negative CM patients with lung infections tended to be male and younger. Fever, fewer central nervous system symptoms, and WBC counts <20 × 106/L were characteristic of this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China.,Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Lin Cheng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Fengjun Sun
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Fu Liu
- Department of Pharmacy, The Affiliated Hospital of North Sichuan Medical College, Nanchong, China
| | - Wei Feng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Pu Yao
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Bangbi Weng
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Peiyuan Xia
- Department of Pharmacy, The First Affiliated Hospital of Third Military Medical University (Army Medical University), Chongqing, China
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Cogliati M, Patrizia P, Vincenzo C, Esposto MC, Prigitano A, Romanò L, Puccianti E. Cryptococcus neoformans species complex isolates living in a tree micro-ecosystem. FUNGAL ECOL 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.funeco.2019.100889] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Zhang C, Tan Z, Tian F. Impaired consciousness and decreased glucose concentration of CSF as prognostic factors in immunocompetent patients with cryptococcal meningitis. BMC Infect Dis 2020; 20:69. [PMID: 31969152 PMCID: PMC6975048 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-020-4794-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cryptococcal meningitis (CM) is the most common fungal infection of the central nervous system and has high morbidity and mortality. Almost studies about prognostic factors have largely focused on the immunocompromised population rather than immunocompetent patients. So that we sought to conduct a retrospective study to determine prognostic factors which predict the outcomes in immunocompetent patients with CM. Methods We retrospectively collected and analyzed the demographic and clinical data of 76 apparently immunocompetent patients with cryptococcal meningitis from January 2003 to June 2019 in China. The clinical outcome was graded by the Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) at discharge, and patients were divided into good (score of 5) and unfavorable (score of 1–4) outcome groups, potential prognostic factors were analyzed. Results Non-parametric test confirmed that unfavorable outcome was associated with lower glucose level of CSF(P = 0.001), and Pearson’s χ2 analysis confirmed that unfavorable outcome was associated with opening pressure of CSF(>300mmH20, P = 0.038), impaired consciousness (P = 0.001), hydrocephalus(P = 0.045), and Shunt surgery (P = 0.045), and then multiple logistic regression analysis confirmed that impaired consciousness(P = 0.015) and lower glucose concentration of CSF(P = 0.012) increased the likelihood of unfavorable outcome in CM patients. Conclusion Impaired consciousness and decreased glucose concentration of CSF were independently prognostic factors which predict the unsatisfactory outcome in immunocompetent patients with CM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chen Zhang
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Zheren Tan
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Fafa Tian
- Department of Neurology, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China.
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Trovato L, Oliveri S, Esposto MC, Prigitano A, Romanò L, Cogliati M. Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii Species Complex Isolates on the Slopes of Mount Etna, SICILY, Italy. Front Microbiol 2019; 10:2390. [PMID: 31681242 PMCID: PMC6813189 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2019.02390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigated the presence of Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complex isolates on olive trees growing in the Eastern part of Sicily (Italy) characterized by the presence of the volcano Etna and the ability of these fungal pathogens to sexually reproduce on medium containing volcanic soil. Samples from 124 olive trees were collected from 14 different sites around Mount Etna. Eighteen trees (14.5%) resulted colonized by C. neoformans VNI-αA isolates, one (0.8%) by VNIV-αD isolates, and two (1.6%) by C. gattii VGI-αB isolates. The ability of environmental and reference strains belonging to VNI, VNIV, and VGI molecular types to sexually reproduce on a medium containing volcanic soil was also tested. VNI and VNIV strains were able to produce filaments and basiodiospores more vigorously than on the control medium, whereas VGI strains were not fertile. In conclusion, the present study identified which C. neoformans and C. gattii species complex genotypes are circulating in Eastern Sicily and confirmed the ecological role of olive trees as environmental reservoir of these pathogens. It also showed that Cryptococcus is able to colonize and sexually reproduce in inhospitable environments such as the slopes of a volcano.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Trovato
- U.O.C. Laboratory Analysis Unit, A.O.U. "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele", Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Salvatore Oliveri
- U.O.C. Laboratory Analysis Unit, A.O.U. "Policlinico-Vittorio Emanuele", Catania, Italy.,Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Maria Carmela Esposto
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Anna Prigitano
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Luisa Romanò
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Massimo Cogliati
- Department of Biomedical Sciences for Health, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Beardsley J, Sorrell TC, Chen SCA. Central Nervous System Cryptococcal Infections in Non-HIV Infected Patients. J Fungi (Basel) 2019; 5:jof5030071. [PMID: 31382367 PMCID: PMC6787755 DOI: 10.3390/jof5030071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Revised: 07/22/2019] [Accepted: 07/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) cryptococcosis in non-HIV infected patients affects solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients, patients with malignancy, rheumatic disorders, other immunosuppressive conditions and immunocompetent hosts. More recently described risks include the use of newer biologicals and recreational intravenous drug use. Disease is caused by Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii species complex; C. gattii is endemic in several geographic regions and has caused outbreaks in North America. Major virulence determinants are the polysaccharide capsule, melanin and several ‘invasins’. Cryptococcal plb1, laccase and urease are essential for dissemination from lung to CNS and crossing the blood–brain barrier. Meningo-encephalitis is common but intracerebral infection or hydrocephalus also occur, and are relatively frequent in C. gattii infection. Complications include neurologic deficits, raised intracranial pressure (ICP) and disseminated disease. Diagnosis relies on culture, phenotypic identification methods, and cryptococcal antigen detection. Molecular methods can assist. Preferred induction antifungal therapy is a lipid amphotericin B formulation (amphotericin B deoxycholate may be used in non-transplant patients) plus 5-flucytosine for 2–6 weeks depending on host type followed by consolidation/maintenance therapy with fluconazole for 12 months or longer. Control of raised ICP is essential. Clinicians should be vigilant for immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Beardsley
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2145, Australia
| | - Tania C Sorrell
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2145, Australia
- Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, Sydney 2145, Australia
| | - Sharon C-A Chen
- Centre for Infectious Diseases and Microbiology Laboratory Services, Institute of Clinical Pathology and Medical Research, NSW Health Pathology, Westmead Hospital and the Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Sydney 2145, Australia.
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Cogliati M, Desnos-Ollivier M, McCormick-Smith I, Rickerts V, Ferreira-Paim K, Meyer W, Boekhout T, Hagen F, Theelen B, Inácio J, Alonso B, Colom MF, Trilles L, Montagna MT, De Donno A, Susever S, Ergin C, Velegraki A, Ellabib MS, Nardoni S, Macci C, Trovato L, Dipineto L, Akcaglar S, Mlinaric-Missoni E, Bertout S, Vencá ACF, Sampaio AC, Criseo G, Ranque S, Çerikçioğlu N, Marchese A, Vezzulli L, Ilkit M, Pasquale V, Polacheck I, Lockhart SR. Genotypes and population genetics of cryptococcus neoformans and cryptococcus gattii species complexes in Europe and the mediterranean area. Fungal Genet Biol 2019; 129:16-29. [PMID: 30953839 DOI: 10.1016/j.fgb.2019.04.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 03/29/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
A total of 476 European isolates (310 Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii, 150 C. neoformans var. neoformans, and 16 C. gattii species complex) from both clinical and environmental sources were analyzed by multi-locus sequence typing. Phylogenetic and population genetic analyses were performed. Sequence analysis identified 74 sequence types among C. neoformans var. neoformans (VNIV), 65 among C. neoformans var. grubii (56 VNI, 8 VNII, 1 VNB), and 5 among the C. gattii species complex (4 VGI and 1 VGIV) isolates. ST23 was the most frequent genotype (22%) among VNI isolates which were mostly grouped in a large clonal cluster including 50% of isolates. Among VNIV isolates, a predominant genotype was not identified. A high percentage of autochthonous STs were identified in both VNI (71%) and VNIV (96%) group of isolates. The 16 European C. gattii species complex isolates analyzed in the present study originated all from the environment and all belonged to a large cluster endemic in the Mediterranean area. Population genetic analysis confirmed that VNI group of isolates were characterized by low variability and clonal expansion while VNIV by a higher variability and a number of recombination events. However, when VNI and VNIV environmental isolates were compared, they showed a similar population structure with a high percentage of shared mutations and the absence of fixed mutations. Also linkage disequilibrium analysis reveals differences between clinical and environmental isolates showing a key role of PLB1 allele combinations in host infection as well as the key role of LAC1 allele combinations for survival of the fungus in the environment. The present study shows that genetic comparison of clinical and environmental isolates represents a first step to understand the genetic characteristics that cause the shift of some genotypes from a saprophytic to a parasitic life style.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Cogliati
- Dip. Scienze Biomediche per la Salute, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milano, Italy.
| | - Marie Desnos-Ollivier
- Institut Pasteur, Molecular Mycology Unit, National Reference Center for Invasive Mycoses & Antifungal, CNRS UMR2000, Paris, France
| | | | | | - Kennio Ferreira-Paim
- Molecular Mycology Research Laboratory, Center for Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, Westmead Clinical School, Marie Bashier Institute for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, (Research and Educational Network) Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia; Department of Microbiology, Federal University of Triangulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Wieland Meyer
- Molecular Mycology Research Laboratory, Center for Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney Medical School, Westmead Clinical School, Marie Bashier Institute for Emerging Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, University of Sydney, Westmead Hospital, (Research and Educational Network) Westmead Institute for Medical Research, Westmead, NSW, Australia
| | - Teun Boekhout
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands; Institute of Biodiversity and Ecosystem Dynamic (IBED), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ferry Hagen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Bart Theelen
- Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Joäo Inácio
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK
| | - Beatriz Alonso
- School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, University of Brighton, Brighton, UK; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón (IisGM), Hospital Gegorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Aristea Velegraki
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | | | - Cristina Macci
- National Research Council, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET), Pisa, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | - Sebastien Bertout
- Unité Mixte Internationale "Recherches Translationnelles sur l'infection à VIH et les Maladies Infectieuses", Université de Montpellier, Montpellier, France
| | - Ana C F Vencá
- Instituto de Higiene e Medicina Tropical, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Ana C Sampaio
- Universidade de Trás-os-Montes e Alto Douro, CITAB, Quinta dos Prados, Vila Real, Portugal
| | - Giuseppe Criseo
- Department of Chemical, Biological, Pharmaceutical and Environmental Sciences, University of Messina, Italy
| | - Stéphane Ranque
- Aix-Marseille University, IRD, APHM, SSA, VITROME, IHU-Méditerranée Infection, Marseille, France
| | | | - Anna Marchese
- Sezione di Microbiologia del DISC, Università di Genova-IRCCS Policlinico San Martino Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Luigi Vezzulli
- Dipartimento di Scienze della Terra, dell'Ambiente e della Vita (DISTAV), Università di Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Macit Ilkit
- University of Çukurova Sarıçam, Adana, Turkey
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Guarana M, Vidal JE, Nucci M. Cryptococcosis in Patients with Hematologic Diseases. CURRENT FUNGAL INFECTION REPORTS 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s12281-018-0332-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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