{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Cryptococcal infections in children: retrospective study and review from Australia.
{Author}: Grimshaw A;Palasanthiran P;Huynh J;Marais B;Chen S;McMullan B;
{Journal}: Future Microbiol
{Volume}: 14
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 12 2019
{Factor}: 3.553
{DOI}: 10.2217/fmb-2019-0215
{Abstract}: Aim: Cryptococcosis causes significant morbidity and mortality worldwide, but pediatric data are limited. Methods: A retrospective literature review of Australian pediatric cryptococcosis and additional 10-year audit of cases from a large pediatric network. Results: 22 cases of cryptococcosis in children were identified via literature review: median age was 13.5 years (IQR 7.8-16 years), 18/22 (82%) had meningitis or central nervous system infection. Where outcome was reported, 11/18 (61%) died. Of six audit cases identified from 2008 to 2017, 5 (83%) had C. gattii disease and survived. One child with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and C. neoformans infection died. For survivors, persisting respiratory or neurological sequelae were reported in 4/6 cases (67%). Conclusion: Cryptococcosis is uncommon in Australian children, but is associated with substantial morbidity.