Cryptococcosis is an opportunistic systemic fungal infection frequently recognized in cats. The disease commonly originates in the nasal cavity and paranasal tissues or lungs and may spread to the skin, eyes or CNS. The objective of this study was to report the occurrence of a primary cutaneous cryptococcosis, a rare form of involvement by the fungus Cryptococcus neoformans. Attended in the veterinary hospital by Dr. Renata, Saccaro, Caxias do Sul - RS, was a feline, female, four years, 3.9 kg, with the complaint of persistent lesions in the left hind limb, existing since a fracture and skin laceration on one of the cushions eight months ago.

It was realized by a physical examination, complete blood count, biochemical tests and biopsy of the lesions. The histopathology evidenced well-defined pyogranulomatous inflammation and after staining, rare fungal organisms were found, consistent with Cryptococcus spp. It can be considered, although rare, a possible gateway through the pre-existing injury in the affected limb; also standing out is the unusual location of the skin disease, usually in the head and neck. From the definitive diagnosis, the use of itraconazole was instituted. The patient was treated until 60 days of antifungal use was completed, when the wounds were healed completely. It is known that primary cutaneous cryptococcosis has rare occurrence, but it's necessary to exalt the importance of being used as a differential diagnosis of skin lesions, to contribute to lower probability of chronicity or unfavorable prognosis.

Feline hind limb presenting lesion caused by cryptococcosis