Cryptococcal infection of the larynx: case report

J Laryngol Otol. 2013 Jul:127 Suppl 2:S54-6. doi: 10.1017/S0022215113000522. Epub 2013 Apr 10.

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.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones / adverse effects
  • Antifungal Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Cryptococcosis / diagnosis*
  • Cryptococcosis / drug therapy
  • Cryptococcus gattii*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Eucalyptus / adverse effects
  • Fluconazole / therapeutic use*
  • Hoarseness / drug therapy
  • Hoarseness / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Inhalation Exposure / adverse effects
  • Laryngeal Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Laryngeal Diseases / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Rare Diseases
  • Vocal Cords
  • Voice

Substances

  • Adrenal Cortex Hormones
  • Antifungal Agents
  • Fluconazole