Cryptococcal Anterior Glottic Web from Disseminated Infection Presenting as Confusion: A Case Report

Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol. 2021 Feb;130(2):211-214. doi: 10.1177/0003489420937036. Epub 2020 Jul 4.

Abstract

Objectives: To educate healthcare providers on Cryptococcus neoformans as a novel cause of glottic webs especially in an immunocompromised patient and discuss recurrence of the glottic web. This case also emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive patient evaluation in cases such as this, as laryngeal involvement in this case was only a portion of the patient's disease burden.

Methods: An extensive review of the patient's clinical course was assessed including patient presentation, diagnostic techniques, medical and surgical treatment, and complications.

Results: Prolonged Fluconazole therapy and two excisions of the glottic web, the second with keel placement, was an effective treatment course for our patient.

Conclusion: Cryptococcal glottic webs are rare, and this case report demonstrates successful treatment in one such case with operative intervention following medical management of disseminated disease.

Keywords: Cryptococcus; glottic stenosis; glottic web; hoarseness.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid / microbiology
  • Confusion / etiology*
  • Cough / etiology
  • Cryptococcosis / diagnosis*
  • Cryptococcus neoformans
  • Dysphonia / etiology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Laryngeal Diseases / microbiology*
  • Laryngoscopy
  • Meningitis, Cryptococcal / diagnosis*
  • Middle Aged