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Cryptococcal infection of the larynx: case report

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  10 April 2013

N Mittal ,
P Collignon ,
T Pham  and
M Robbie
N Mittal*
Affiliation:
Capital Pathology, The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
P Collignon
Affiliation:
Infectious Diseases Unit, The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia Clinical School, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
T Pham
Affiliation:
Woden Valley Specialist Centre, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
M Robbie
Affiliation:
Capital Pathology, The Canberra Hospital, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Namita Mittal, Capital Pathology, 2 Makin Place, Canberra, ACT, Australia2600 Fax: +61 2 62852946 E-mail: drnmittal@gmail.com
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Abstract

Objective:

Laryngeal cryptococcosis is a rare condition. In this report, we describe the findings for and treatment of a 58-year-old man with Cryptococcus gattii infection of the right vocal fold.

Method:

Case report and review of the relevant English language literature.

Results:

The patient presented with persistent hoarseness of voice. Laryngoscopy demonstrated an irregular, red lesion on the right vocal fold. Histopathological examination identified cryptococcus. The patient was treated with oral fluconazole 400 mg/day for eight weeks.

Conclusion:

Laryngeal involvement by Cryptococcus gattii can result from prolonged inhaled corticosteroid therapy and proximity to eucalyptus trees. The clinical presentation, laryngoscopic findings and imaging results of laryngeal involvement may mimic a neoplasm. Histopathological examination can demonstrate the causative organism. Management consists of advice from an infectious disease specialist together with adequate treatment by antifungal agents.

Keywords

HoarsenessCryptococcus GattiiEucalyptus
Type
Clinical Records
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 127 , Supplement S2 , July 2013 , pp. S54 - S56
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2013 

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References

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