Fingolimod-related cryptococcal meningoencephalitis and immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome in a patient with multiple sclerosis

Fingolimod is an oral medication for multiple sclerosis that sequesters certain subsets of lymphocytes in lymph nodes, reducing egress into blood and their subsequent CNS migration. The initial multi-site randomized Phase III controlled trials found rates of infection similar to those in control groups. However, post-marketing surveillance has revealed an association with several opportunistic infections, including cryptococcosis. We report a case of fingolimod-related cryptococcal meningoencephalitis and IRIS after drug discontinuation and suggest a surveillance and risk mitigation strategy.

Automated summary

Fingolimod is an oral medication commonly used to treat multiple sclerosis by sequestering certain subsets of lymphocytes. However, post-discontinuation may lead to opportunistic infections like cryptococcal meningitis and IRIS. Surveillance and risk mitigation strategies are recommended.