CRYPTOCOCCOSIS

CRYPTOCOCCOSIS = Disease

Cryptococcus neoformans (causative organism, yeast)

Cryptococcosis is caused by the yeast Cryptococcus neoformans. Cryptococcus neoformans is found in soil contaminated with bird droppings. Transmission is via inhalation of the yeast in dried bird (usually pigeon but can be chicken) droppings. Most cases are in urban areas. Inhalation of the spores causes disease in the lungs. Most of the time it does not progress beyond the lungs. It can spread through the bloodstream to other parts of the body including the brain.

Signs and Symptoms:

In the lungs cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, fever. In the brain (Cryptococcal Meningitis) headache, fever, neck pain, nausea and vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion or changes in behavior.