neoformans occurs worldwide, frequently in association with pigeon or other bird droppings. Reservoir of cryptococcusĬryptococcus has saprophytic growth in the external environment. Infection can also occur in cats, dogs, horses, cows, monkeys and other animals. This may relate to differences in occupational exposure. Infection is more frequent in adults than children, and males are more commonly infected than females. Public health significance and occurrence of cryptococcosisĬryptococcal infections occur sporadically in all parts of the world. Pulmonary infection may precede infection in other sites by months or years. Molecular diagnostic methods are also emerging. Point-of-care antigen testing via dipstick is becoming increasingly available in resource-limited settings. The diagnosis is confirmed by culture (CSF, blood, sputum or urine) or by histopathology (Mayer’s mucicarmine staining). Cryptococcal antigens may also be detected in the CSF and serum. DiagnosisĮncapsulated budding forms of the fungus may be seen in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), urine or pus using Indian ink staining. gattii is more commonly seen in immunocompetent people. neoformans is more commonly seen in immunocompromised people C. Untreated meningitis can be fatal in weeks to months.Ĭ. Immunocompromised people (including those with HIV infection or cancer) often present with meningitis (subacute or chronic) and may have disseminated infection at other sites, including kidneys, prostate, bone and skin, in the form of pustules, papules, plaques and ulcers. Pulmonary cryptococcosis in immunocompetent people usually manifests as a nodule, which must be distinguished from a malignancy however, malignancies may co-exist. Skin, bone and other organs are less frequently infected. Lung involvement may cause symptoms of lower respiratory tract infection or may be asymptomatic. Identification of cryptococcosis Clinical featuresĬryptococcal infection usually presents as subacute or chronic meningitis or meningoencephalitis with headache and altered mental state. gattii has been associated with some tree species (eucalyptus) its natural habitat is soil and plant debris. The major species of Cryptococcus include C.
Infection occurs after inhalation of spores that are present in the environment. Infectious agent of cryptococcosisĬryptococcu s is a fungus that is found in soil and is usually associated with bird droppings. Primary school and children’s services centre exclusion for cryptococcosis Notification requirement for cryptococcosis
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