Microscopic detection of Cryptococcus in the cerebrospinal fluid as the first symptom of the advanced stage of AIDS - a case study

Opportune infections may be the first serious symptom pointing to the underlying disease in persons with T lymphocyte immunodeficiency. The case study describes the occurrence of Cryptococcus meningitis as the first symptom of advanced HIV/AIDS disease. The diagnosis resulted from a rigorous cytological examination of the cerebrospinal fluid. The microscopic finding was confirmed by a latex test and cultivation with massive growth of Cryptococcus neoformans. Subsequently, HIV/AIDS was diagnosed, with anamnestically documented risk homosexual and heterosexual activity.