Ulcer as the only manifestation of disseminated cryptococcosis in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis

Authors

  • Guadalupe Zanier Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Mauro Coringrato Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Fernando Messina Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Esteban Maronna Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina
  • Viviana Leiro Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47196/da.v31i2.2875

Keywords:

extrapulmonary cryptococcosis, cutaneous cryptoccocosis, non HIV immunosuppression

Abstract

Cryptococcosis is a systemic mycosis caused by yeasts of the genus Cryptococcus. Extrapulmonary forms are frequently observed in patients with immunodeficiencies. Skin lesions are characterized by clinical polymorphism, presenting molluscoid papules, pustules, subcutaneous abscesses, nodules and acneiform lesions. Ulcer as a clinical manifestation is rare. Diagnosis is established through direct visualization of the fungus and cultures. The first-line treatment is amphotericin B and in mild forms fluconazole may be indicated. We present the exceptional case of a patient with rheumatoid arthritis being treated with glucocorticoid, methotrexate and leflunamide who presented an ulcer as the only manifestation of disseminated cryptococcosis.

Author Biographies

Guadalupe Zanier, Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Second-year Medical Trainee, Dermatology Unit

Mauro Coringrato, Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Staff Physician, Dermatology Unit

Fernando Messina, Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Mycologist, Dermatology Unit

Esteban Maronna, Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Pathologist, Dermatology Unit

Viviana Leiro, Francisco J. Muñiz Hospital, City of Buenos Aires, Argentina

Head of Unit, Dermatology Unit

References

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Published

2025-08-01

Issue

Section

Clinical Cases