Cryptococcus gattii infection in an immunocompetent patient

Cryptococcosis is a fungal infection caused by <i>Cryptococcus gattii</i> and <i>Cryptococcus neoformans</i> that primarily affects the brain and lungs. While <i>C. gatti</i> typically infects immunodeficient hosts, it can also infect immunocompetent hosts, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. Recently, there has been a rise in reported cases globally. Symptoms of <i>C. gattii</i> infection include nonspecific systemic signs such as weight loss and fever, neurological symptoms such as meningoencephalitis, and pulmonary symptoms including cough and chest pain. Diagnosis involves imaging studies, cryptococcal antigen testing, and culture confirmation. Treatment involves a wide range of antifungal agents, including fluconazole, amphotericin B, and flucytosine. However, the most appropriate agent is determined based on the infection site. In this report, we present a case of a 63-year-old male patient with no history of immunosuppression who developed <i>C. gattii</i> infection. The patient presented with confusion, headache, and shortness of breath. Initial imaging revealed hydrocephalus and a lung mass. Despite treatment with antifungal agents and surgical interventions, the condition of the patient deteriorated, highlighting the diagnostic and therapeutic challenges of <i>C. gattii</i> infections. This case emphasizes the importance of early detection and aggressive treatment to improve prognosis in <i>C. gattii</i> infections, even in immunocompetent individuals.