DISSEMINATED CRYPTOCOCCUS: AN UNUSUAL PRESENTATION-A CASE REPORT.

Introduction: Cryptococcosis is a fungal disease affecting the respiratory and central nervous system in HIV-infected individuals, causing life-threatening symptoms and necessitating prompt diagnosis, with approximately 5% of infected individuals developing it. Case Report: A 35-year-old HIV-positive male patient presented with abdominal pain, fever, and cough, without cervical lymphadenopathy. USG revealed multiple enlarged lymph nodes, and FNAC was performed. Result: Cytological examination revealed lymphocytes, histiocytes, granulomas, and necrotic material, along with budding yeast of Cryptococcus neoformans. PAS, GMS, Indian ink, CSF, and bone marrow tests confirmed Cryptococci. Conclusion: FNAC is a safe and efficient technique for early diagnosis of Cryptococcal lymphadenitis, a rare presentation in lymphadenopathy, highlighting its potential for rapid treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]