Clinical characteristics and evaluation of the incidence of cryptococcosis in Finland 2004–2018

Background Cryptococcosis is one of the major causes mortality among HIV patients worldwide. Though most often associated with late stage infection/AIDS, a significant number cases occur in other immunocompromised such as solid organ transplant recipients and hematological malignancies. Immunocompromised are heterogeneous group their increases constantly. Since little known about incidence clinical features cryptococcosis Northern Europe, our aim was to investigate characteristics Finland.Methods We retrospectively reviewed laboratory confirmed Finland during 2004–2018. Only those who were treated for included study. Initial findings medical records also collected.Results A total 22 The annual 0.03 per 100,000 population. Ten HIV-positive 12 out HIV-negative. Hematological malignancy common underlying condition HIV-negative patients.Conclusions To knowledge, this first study presentation Finland. demonstrate that invasive cryptococcal infection occurs not only HIV/AIDS or otherwise but immunocompetent individuals. Even though extremely rare Finland, its recognition important since prognosis depends on rapid diagnostics early antifungal therapy.