Disseminated cryptococcosis presenting as lung mass

Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic fungal infection in immunocompromised individuals, with a disease spectrum ranging from asymptomatic pulmonary infection to fatal meningoencephalitis. This case report describes the case of a man with diabetes in his late 40s who presented with chest pain and generalised weakness. Contrast-enhanced CT of the chest revealed a mass lesion in the left upper lobe. Ultrasound-guided biopsy of the mass revealed a diagnosis of cryptococcosis. Cerebrospinal fluid and blood samples tested positive for cryptococcal antigens. A final diagnosis of disseminated cryptococcosis was made, and the patient was started on liposomal amphotericin B and oral fluconazole. The patient showed clinical and radiological improvement. This case highlights the fact that not all pulmonary masses are necessarily malignant. Hence, it is essential to consider non-malignant causes, particularly cryptococcosis, in immunocompromised individuals.