BACKGROUND: Cryptococcus neoformans causes systemic disease in patients with 
immunodeficiency. The incidence of cryptococcal meningitis has increased in 
parallel with that of HIV infection. Cancer is also a known predisposing factor.
MATERIAL AND METHODS: We present two case reports and a review of the literature 
concerning the epidemiology, diagnostics and treatment of cryptococcal 
meningitis.
RESULTS: The incidence of cryptococcal meningitis in Scandinavia seems to be 
lower than in other parts of the world. Clinical signs and symptoms are often 
uncharacteristic. Detection of antigen in spinal fluid is a sensitive and fast 
test.
INTERPRETATION: Cryptococcal meningitis is a rare disease, often with 
uncharacteristic symptoms. Patients with haematological malignancies have a 
higher risk of contracting this disease. It is a differential diagnosis when 
neurological symptoms occur in these patients.