Primary Cutaneous Cryptococcus Following Traumatic Exposure: A Case Report and Retrospective Analysis

Primary cutaneous cryptococcus (PCC) is a form of Cryptococcal neoformans infection characterized by localized cutaneous colonization and proliferation. In this case study, we present PCC occurring following a previous trauma in a 77-year-old male with a history of renal organ transplant maintained by immunosuppressive therapy. Colonies of C. neoformans were successfully identified during a secondary workup after the patient had been misdiagnosed. Despite the delay in treatment, complete remission was achieved through aggressive antifungal therapy. Our case highlights common clinical pitfalls that contribute to the prolonged diagnosis of PCC. Our findings and retrospective analysis underscore commonalities in disease presentation, such as high-risk patient populations, transmission routes, and associated symptoms. Integrating these insights into clinical practice may heighten provider suspicion and enhance patient outcomes.