Final answer:
The characteristic LP finding in cryptococcal meningitis is the presence of Cryptococcus neoformans, observed using India ink stain in the CSF. This is alongside high protein, low glucose, and high opening pressure in the CSF analysis. PMNs are not typically elevated as they are in bacterial meningitis.
Step-by-step explanation:
The LP finding characteristic of cryptococcal meningitis is the presence of Cryptococcus neoformans in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which can be observed using India ink preparations that reveal the extensive capsules surrounding the yeast cells. In addition to direct microscopic examination, serological tests can detect cryptococcal antigens, and CSF analysis typically shows a high opening pressure, elevated protein, and a low CSF glucose concentration. Unlike bacterial meningitis, the levels of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) are generally not elevated, and CSF may not appear as cloudy. Cryptococcal meningitis requires a prolonged treatment with antifungal drugs, such as amphotericin B combined with flucytosine, followed by fluconazole.