Relato de caso: Criptococose intestinal em um cão

Abstract

A rare case of intestinal cryptococcosis in a dog presenting with hematochezia, abdominal pain, and lethargy. During surgery for intussusception correction, a jejunal nodule suspected to be neoplastic was identified. Histopathological analysis revealed granulomatous inflammatory infiltration associated with encapsulated yeast compatible with Cryptococcus spp.. The diagnosis was confirmed by fungal culture and PCR, identifying Cryptococcus neoformans as the causative agent. Laboratory findings showed normocytic hypochromic anemia, leukocytosis with toxic neutrophils, and hypoalbuminemia. Additionally, Babesia spp. co-infection was detected, contributing to immunosuppression and worsening the clinical condition.Treatment included itraconazole and supportive care; however, the dog’s condition deteriorated, leading to death. This case highlights the rarity of intestinal cryptococcosis in dogs and the importance of considering it as a differential diagnosis in gastrointestinal disorders. The integration of diagnostic methods, including cytology, histopathology, fungal culture, and PCR, was essential for diagnostic confirmation. This documentation underscores the need for early diagnostic and therapeutic strategies in complex opportunistic infections.