A Case of Pulmonary Cryptococcosis Caused by Capsule-Deficient Cryptococcus neoformans

Cryptococcosis, a fungal infection primarily caused by Cryptococcus neoformans (CN), is a significant concern for immunocompromised individuals. This paper presents a case of a 51-year-old immunocompromised male who initially presented with symptoms suggestive of community-acquired pneumonia but was later diagnosed with pulmonary cryptococcosis caused by capsule-deficient CN. The patient's exposure to construction dust, coupled with his immunocompromised state due to immunosuppressive treatment for psoriatic arthritis, likely contributed to his susceptibility. The unique presentation of the disease, due to the absence of the characteristic thick capsule, presented a diagnostic challenge. A brief review is provided looking at the mechanism, pathogenesis, and implications of capsule deficiency in CN. The case provides an example of one of the many presentations of cryptococcosis, especially in immunocompromised individuals, and highlights the diagnostic complexities of capsule-deficient CN strains.