[Large crusted ulceration of the scalp: first manifestation of cryptococcosis in an AIDS patient].
BACKGROUND
Cryptococcosis is an infection caused by the yeast-like fungus Cryptococcus neoformans. It primarily occurs in immunocompromised hosts. Crytptococcosis is usually a systemic disease and may be serious if the lungs or the central nervous system are involved.


METHODS
We describe a case of cutaneous cryptococcosis without systemic involvement occurring as the first manifestation of AIDS. The skin lesion in our patient consisted of a large crusted ulceration on the scalp. Fluconazole was successful.


CONCLUSIONS
This case is a new observation of primary cutaneous cryptococcosis in a patient with AIDS. Clinical appearance may be misleading; skin lesions may be the primary sign in immunocompromised patients. Rapid treatment and secondary prophylaxis are required.
Nicolas
C
C
Service de Dermatologie, Hôpital du Bon-Secours, 1, place Philippe-de-Vigneulles, 57000 Metz, France.
Truchetet
F
F
Christian
B
B
Dorvaux
V
V
Cuny
J F
JF
D017088:AIDS-Related Opportunistic Infections / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D003453:Cryptococcosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012535:Scalp / Q000473:pathology; D012536:Scalp Dermatoses / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology