A case report of disseminated histoplasmosis and concurrent cryptococcal meningitis in a patient treated with ruxolitinib

Abstract

BackgroundRuxolitinib is a highly potent janus kinase inhibitor that places its users at risk for various bacterial infections and viral reactivation. However new reports are also emerging that suggest greater immunosuppression and risk for fungal disease.Case presentationWe report the case of a 51\u2009year-old veteran from Guam, treated with ruxolitinib for polycythemia vera, who developed disseminated histoplasmosis and concurrent cryptococcal meningitis.ConclusionThis case draws attention to the degree of immunosuppression that may be seen with this drug and the need for heightened vigilance for opportunistic infections in those treated with inhibitors of janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of transcription (JAK/STAT) such as ruxolitinib.