Cryptococcal infection of the larynx: case report.

OBJECTIVE

Laryngeal cryptococcosis is a rare condition. In this report, we describe the findings for and treatment of a 58-year-old man with Cryptococcus gattii infection of the right vocal fold.

METHOD

Case report and review of the relevant English language literature.

RESULTS

The patient presented with persistent hoarseness of voice. Laryngoscopy demonstrated an irregular, red lesion on the right vocal fold. Histopathological examination identified cryptococcus. The patient was treated with oral fluconazole 400 mg/day for eight weeks.

CONCLUSION

Laryngeal involvement by Cryptococcus gattii can result from prolonged inhaled corticosteroid therapy and proximity to eucalyptus trees. The clinical presentation, laryngoscopic findings and imaging results of laryngeal involvement may mimic a neoplasm. Histopathological examination can demonstrate the causative organism. Management consists of advice from an infectious disease specialist together with adequate treatment by antifungal agents.