Cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis (pronounced: krip-toh-kok-ko-sis) is a fungal infection caused by the Cryptococcus species. The most common species causing this infection is Cryptococcus neoformans.
Etymology
The term Cryptococcosis is derived from the Greek words "kryptos" meaning hidden and "kokkos" meaning berry, referring to the microscopic appearance of the fungus.
Overview
Cryptococcosis primarily affects the central nervous system, especially the meninges (the protective layers covering the brain and spinal cord), but it can also affect the lungs, skin, and other parts of the body. The disease is often associated with immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, but can also occur in individuals with a normal immune system.
Symptoms
Symptoms of cryptococcosis can vary depending on the organ system involved but may include headache, fever, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness, and changes in behavior or mental status when the central nervous system is involved. Pulmonary symptoms can include cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of cryptococcosis is typically made by identifying the Cryptococcus fungus in a sample from the affected area, such as cerebrospinal fluid or lung tissue. This can be done through microscopy, culture, or antigen detection.
Treatment
Treatment for cryptococcosis typically involves long-term antifungal therapy, often with a combination of amphotericin B and flucytosine, followed by fluconazole.
Prevention
Prevention strategies for cryptococcosis are primarily focused on reducing exposure to the Cryptococcus fungus, which is found in soil and bird droppings, particularly pigeon droppings.
See Also
- Fungal infection
- Central nervous system
- Meninges
- Immunocompromised
- HIV/AIDS
- Microscopy
- Culture
- Antigen
- Amphotericin B
- Flucytosine
- Fluconazole
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cryptococcosis
- Wikipedia's article - Cryptococcosis
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