Cryptococcus gattii
Cryptococcus gattii (pronunciation: krip-toe-kok-us ga-tee-eye) is a species of encapsulated yeast-like fungus that can cause a rare and serious infection known as Cryptococcosis.
Etymology
The name Cryptococcus gattii is derived from the Greek words kryptos meaning hidden and kokkos meaning granule. The species name gattii is in honor of the Italian mycologist Dr. Elio Gatti.
Description
Cryptococcus gattii is a basidiomycetous yeast that can be found in the environment, particularly in association with certain tree species. It is capable of causing disease in both humans and animals, particularly those with compromised immune systems. However, unlike its close relative Cryptococcus neoformans, C. gattii can also cause disease in healthy individuals.
Infection and Symptoms
Infection with C. gattii can lead to a condition known as cryptococcosis, which can manifest as a lung infection or as a serious brain infection (cryptococcal meningitis). Symptoms may include cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever, headache, nausea, and confusion.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis of C. gattii infection is typically made through culture of the organism from body fluids or tissues, or by detection of cryptococcal antigen in body fluids. Treatment typically involves long-term antifungal therapy with drugs such as Amphotericin B and Flucytosine.
Epidemiology
C. gattii was originally thought to be a tropical organism, but has been found in temperate regions as well. Outbreaks have occurred in various parts of the world, including a notable outbreak on Vancouver Island, Canada, in the early 2000s.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cryptococcus gattii
- Wikipedia's article - Cryptococcus gattii
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