Cryptococcosis is an infection caused by fungi that belong to the genus Cryptococcus. There are over 30 different species of Cryptococcus, but two species – Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii – cause nearly all cryptococcal infections in humans and animals. Although many people who develop cryptococcosis have weakened immune systems, some are previously healthy.
C. neoformans can be found in soil throughout the world. People at risk can become infected after inhaling microscopic, airborne fungal spores. Sometimes these spores cause symptoms of a lung infection, but other times there are no symptoms at all. In people with weakened immune systems, the fungus can spread to other parts of the body and cause serious disease.
For other Fungal topics, visit the Fungal Homepage.
C. neoformans cryptococcosis Topics
Definition
What is C. neoformans cryptococcosis?…
Symptoms
Shortness of breath, cough, and fever…
Risk & Prevention
Who gets it and how it can be prevented…
Causes
Inhalation of spores from the environment…
Diagnosis & Testing
See your health care provider, sample tissue, clinical diagnosis…
Treatment & Outcomes
Antifungal treatment, mortality rate…
Screening
Combating the global burden of cryptococcal meningitis
Statistics
Incidence, surveillance…
Training resources
Materials for implementing cryptococcal screening…
Additional Information
Articles, publications…
Spotlight
Cryptococcus in Persons Living with HIV
Cryptococcal meningitis is a leading cause of death among persons living with HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa. CDC is helping to start programs that will reduce the number of deaths from this infection. Until now, diagnosis and treatment guidelines have not been targeted at resource-limited countries. CDC has partnered with WHO and leading international experts to develop new guidelines [PDF - 44 pages] , which target the realities faced in resource-limited settings, and are the first to recommend screening for cryptococcal disease.
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