# Cryptococcus albidus (Naganishia albida) meningitis in a young patient with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia

## TL;DR

A young leukemia patient was diagnosed with rare fungal meningitis caused by Cryptococcus albidus, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis and antifungal treatment.

## Contribution

This case report highlights the diagnostic challenge and treatment of Cryptococcus albidus meningitis in immunocompromised patients.

## Key findings

- Cryptococcus albidus meningitis was misdiagnosed as HSV encephalitis before confirmation via CSF analysis.
- Antifungal therapy with liposomal amphotericin B and flucytosine improved the patient's condition.
- Elevated procalcitonin levels may indicate fungal infections in immunocompromised individuals.

## Abstract

Cryptococcus albidus, an emerging pathogen, poses diagnostic and therapeutic challenges, especially in immunocompromised patients. We report a case of C. albidus meningitis in a young T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia patient, initially suspected to have Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) encephalitis. CSF analysis confirmed C. albidus, leading to antifungal therapy with liposomal amphotericin B and flucytosine, resulting in clinical improvement. Elevated procalcitonin levels suggest a potential role in fungal infections. This case underscores the importance of early identification and appropriate treatment in C. albidus meningitis.