Pneumocystis Pneumonia and Disseminated Cryptococcosis Dual Infection: A Case Report

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is a virus that targets and destroys a cluster of differentiation 4 (CD4) cells. When left untreated, HIV can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), which the presence of AIDS-defining diseases can characterize. Here, the authors report the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to a case of a 56-year-old male living with HIV who presented to the emergency department with dyspnea and fever. Chest CT revealed ground-glass opacities, consistent with <i>Pneumocystis</i> pneumonia (PCP)<i>.</i> Bronchoalveolar lavage culture confirmed PCP, and <i>Cryptococcus neoformans</i> was also identified. Lumbar puncture and MRI endorsed the diagnosis of disseminated cryptococcosis. The patient underwent targeted treatment for both opportunistic infections. However, after completing the therapeutic scheme, his neurologic condition deteriorated, and cerebral CT revealed hemorrhagic lesions, necessitating transfer to a neurosurgery unit.