Often occurs in immunocompromised individuals: Infection with this pathogen is heavily associated with AIDS infection (CD4 count < 100 cells/mm3), those with hematological malignancy, and those on high dose steroid therapy. Cryptococcus is surrounded by a thick capsule the carbon grains cannot penetrate the capsule resulting in a clear halo around the refractile wall of the yeast. After the preliminary microscopic examination (India ink staining and gram. India ink staining of cerebrospinal fluid is a sensitive test for the presence of cryptococcus neoformans. It belongs to the class of drugs of azoles. Cryptococcus neoformans is a ubiquitous encapsulated yeast that causes. It is used with amphotericin B to treat infection with Cryptococcus neoformans.įluconazoleis often used in AIDS patients with more mild Cryptococcus neoformans infections. In brief, the cryptococcal antigen test is also called the CrAg test. This agent is used to treat infection with Cryptococcus neoformans (especially in the case of cryptococcal meningitis).įlucytosineis an agent that converts inhibits DNA and RNA biosynthesis. Cryptococcosis is the fourth most common opportunistic infection. Hematogenous spread to meninges CONDITIONS CAUSEDĭermatological: Wound/cutaneous cryptococcosis TREATMENTĪmphotericin Bis an antifungal agent that binds ergosterol (which is unique to fungus) and forms membrane pores that allow leakage of electrolytes. Inhalation of spores from the environment (distribution is worldwide in the soil, also found in pigeon droppings). Urease positive: this pathogen produces urease. Polysaccharide capsular antigen can be detected in the lab using a latex agglutination test.MOLECULAR CHARACTERISTICSĬapsule:this fungi has a thick outer capsule composed of polysaccharides. India ink stain of Cryptococcus neoformans ( source) CULTURE CHARACTERISTICSĬultured on Sabouraud agar. Mucicarmine can also be used to stain the capsule of the fungi red.

Cryptococcus neoformansis a yeast fungus that can be visualized with an India ink stain due to its thick capsule (which prevents the fungi itself from being stained).

India ink cryptococcus