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Published in: Virology Journal 1/2022

Open Access 01-12-2022 | Opportunistic Infection | Review

Disseminated cryptococcosis with varicella-zoster virus coinfection of idiopathic CD4 + T lymphocytopenia: a case report and literature review

Authors: Li Fang, Junli Zhang, Fangfang Lv

Published in: Virology Journal | Issue 1/2022

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Abstract

Background

Idiopathic CD4 + T lymphocytopenia (ICL) is a rare immunodeficiency syndrome, unaccompanied by various opportunistic infections. Cryptococcus and varicella-zoster viruse are the most common opportunistic infections.

Method

We described a case of disseminated cryptococcosis with varicella-zoster virus coinfection in a patient with ICL and reviewed all published reports. A total of 26 cases with cryptococcal meningitis in ICL were enrolled.

Discussion

ICL remains poorly understood to clinicians. Patients with cryptococcal meningitis in ICL mostly suffered with headache and fever in a subacute or chronic period, while some patients might have atypical manifestations which makes a difficulty for early diagnosis. Some characteristics of cerebrospinal fluid can help to predict the prognosis of the disease. Cryptococcosis with varicella-zoster virus coinfection is rare but serious.

Conclusion

We recommed CD4 + T cells should be assessed in patients with unusual or recurrent infections. As the underlying pathophysiology is poorly understood, there is no standard therapy for ICL. Increased awareness of the disease and early prevention for CD4 reduction are needed.
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Metadata
Title
Disseminated cryptococcosis with varicella-zoster virus coinfection of idiopathic CD4 + T lymphocytopenia: a case report and literature review
Authors
Li Fang
Junli Zhang
Fangfang Lv
Publication date
01-12-2022
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Virology Journal / Issue 1/2022
Electronic ISSN: 1743-422X
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s12985-022-01765-7

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