Treatment of impaired consciousness with lumbar punctures in a patient with cryptococcal meningitis and AIDS.

A 50 year old man with AIDS, cryptococcal meningitis and a normal CT-scan developed impaired consciousness and even deep coma associated with very high CSF pressure. After lumbar CSF drainage consciousness improved dramatically. We conclude that in patients with cryptococcal meningitis who have impaired consciousness and a normal CT scan, CSF drainage to improve the level of consciousness should be considered.