Acute/subacute paracoccidioidomycosis associated with drug-resistant tuberculosis in a person living with HIV/AIDS

Abstract

Paracoccidioidomycosis (PCM) is a neglected tropical disease classified as acute/subacute and chronic. In people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA), coinfection can lead to severe clinical manifestations. We report the case of a 30-year-old immunosuppressed male presenting fever, weight loss, polymorphic skin lesions, diffuse lymphadenopathy, hepatosplenomegaly, and joint effusion. Histopathological analysis revealed fungal structures compatible with Paracoccidioides spp., and serology was positive at a titer of 1:16. Despite initial Amphotericin B and antiretroviral therapy, the patient developed a productive cough and persistent systemic symptoms. Initial sputum tests were negative for Mycobacterium tuberculosis, but subsequent bronchoalveolar lavage detected rifampin-resistant tuberculosis (TB). The remarkable overlap of clinical and radiological features of TB and PCM can significantly delay diagnosis, highlighting the need for high clinical suspicion and prompt investigation with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) testing. After one-month outpatient follow-up, the patient showed significant cutaneous improvement, undetectable HIV viral load, and a marked increase in CD4+ T-cell count. This report highlights the importance of recognizing the acute/subacute form of PCM as an AIDS-defining illness in endemic areas, enabling early treatment and improved outcomes.