Cutaneous Cryptococcosis Mimicking Basal Cell Carcinoma in a Patient with AIDS

BACKGROUND: Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic infection caused by the encapsulated yeast Cryptococcus neoformans. This ubiquitous organism has emerged as a frequent finding in immunosuppressed patients, especially those with underlying malignancies, organ transplants, and the acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). Cutaneous manifestations of cryptococcosis occur in 10 to 15% of patients having systemic involvement. These skin lesions may simulate a variety of different disease entities. METHODS: A case of crytococcosis mimicking a basal cell carcinoma is the subject of a case report presentation. RESULTS: A case of cutaneous cryptococcosis mimicking basal cell carcinoma occurred in a patient with AIDS, who did not appear to have dissemination, but was treated aggressively to stem possible occult systemic disease. CONCLUSION: Cutaneous crytococcosis may mimic other dermatologic disorders.