Cryptococcal Meningitis and Autoimmune Encephalitis in a Young Adult Filipino Patient: A Case Report

This case report describes the nursing care of a 23-year-old male patient admitted to the intensive care unit with a rare diagnosis of concurrent cryptococcal meningitis and autoimmune encephalitis. The patient presented with rapid onset neurological symptoms, including slurred speech, diaphoresis, weakness, syncope, and seizures. Diagnostic workup included Computed Tomography (CT) scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), electroencephalogram (EEG), and Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) analysis, which revealed findings suggestive of cryptococcal infection. The patient was managed with steroids, antifungal therapy and supportive care. This case highlights the importance of considering both infectious and autoimmune etiologies in patients presenting with complex neurological manifestations.