Cryptococcosis

Clinical Features

Initial pulmonary infection is usually asymptomatic. Most patients present with disseminated infection, especially meningoencephalitis. In the United States, 85% of cases occur in HIV-infected persons.

Aetiologic Agent

Cryptococcus neoformans.

Reservoir

C. neoformans var. neoformans has been isolated from the soil worldwide, usually in association with bird droppings. Less common etiologic agent, C. neoformans var. gattii has been isolated from eucalyptus trees in tropical and sub-tropical regions.

Incidence

0.4-1.3 cases per 100,000 in the general population. Among persons with AIDS, the annual incidence is 2-7 cases per 1,000.

Sequelae

Meningitis may lead to permanent neurologic damage. Mortality rate is about 12%.

Transmission

Inhalation of airborne yeast cells and/or basidiospores.

Risk Groups

Immunocompromised persons, especially those with HIV infection.

Surveillance

Active, population-based surveillance in selected U.S. sites. No national surveillance exists.

Challenges

Developing a cost-effective prevention strategy (although fluconazole is effective chemoprophylaxis for persons with AIDS, it does not affect survival and is not considered cost-effective).

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