First Reported Case of Cryptococcus laurentii Fungemia in a Term Neonate from Bangladesh

ABSTRACT Background: Cryptococcus laurentii, a rare fungal pathogen, has been increasingly reported in immunocompromised patients worldwide. However, cases in neonates are exceptionally rare. Case Presentation: We report the first documented case of Cryptococcus laurentii fungemia in a neonate from Bangladesh. The patient, a term female neonate, presented with respiratory distress and seizures shortly after birth. Blood cultures confirmed Cryptococcus laurentii as the causative organism. The patient was successfully treated with intravenous fluconazole for 10 days. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of considering rare fungal pathogens in neonates with sepsis, even in the absence of typical risk factors. Early diagnosis and appropriate antifungal therapy are crucial for favorable outcomes. Word count: The main body of this review, excluding the title page, abstract, references, figures, tables, and acknowledgements, is approximately 2,200 words. Keywords: Cryptococcus laurentii, fungemia, neonate, fluconazole, Bangladesh