infections
Cryptococcosis
Introduction
Cryptococcosis is an infection caused by the fungusCryptococcus neoformansorCryptococcus gattii. People may have no symptoms or may have headache and confusion, a cough and an achy chest, or a rash, depending on where the infection is. The diagnosis is based on culture and examination of tissue and fluid samples. Antifungal medications are given by mouth or, if the infection is severe, intravenously. (See also Overview of Fungal Infections .) Cryptococcus neoformansoccurs primarily in soil that is contaminated with bird droppings, particularly those of pigeons.Cryptococcus gattiiusually is present in certain species of trees. These fungi are found all over the world. UnlikeCryptococcus neoformans,Cryptococcus gattiiis not associated with birds. Outbreaks ofCryptococcus gattiihave occurred in the Canadian province of British Columbia, the U.S. Pacific Northwest, Papua New Guinea, northern Australia, and in the Mediterranean region of Europe. Cryptococcusinfection was relatively rare until the AIDS epidemic began. Cryptococcosis is a defining opportunistic infection for people with AIDS. The fungus tends to infect people who have a weakened immune system, including those with the following: Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) None Hodgkin Lymphoma or another lymphoma Sarcoidosis None Use of Some Drugs That Can Cause Immunodeficiency , such as those used to prevent rejection of an organ transplant and, when taken for a long time, corticosteroids However, cryptococcosis caused byCryptococcus gattiican also develop in people with a normal immune system. It is also more likely to occur in people who have other lung disorders, are 50 years old or older, or smoke tobacco. Infection usually occurs when people inhale the spores of the fungus. Thus, cryptococcosis typically affects the lungs. It most commonly spreads to the brain and tissues covering the brain and spinal cord (meninges), resulting in Subacute and Chronic Meningitis . Cryptococcosis may also spread to the skin and other tissues, such as the bones, joints, liver, spleen, kidneys, and prostate. 