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Cyclospora: an enigma worth unraveling
1Department of Veterinary Science and Microbiology, University of Arizona, Tucson 85721, USA. csterlin@u.arizona.edu
Emerging Infectious Diseases
|March 19, 1999
Summary
Cyclospora cayetanensis is an emerging enteric parasite. Increased detection methods have aided its recognition, with suspected waterborne and foodborne transmission linked to outbreaks.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Cyclospora cayetanensis, initially misclassified, gained recognition as an emerging pathogen.
- Early reports in New Guinea (1977) and later in New York and Peru (1985) marked its initial descriptions.
- Suspicions of waterborne and foodborne transmission emerged in the early 1990s.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on Cyclospora cayetanensis.
- To discuss its association with waterborne and foodborne transmission routes.
- To identify unresolved issues and future research needs.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles and outbreak reports.
- Analysis of historical data on Cyclospora cayetanensis detection and transmission.
- Synthesis of current understanding of the parasite's epidemiology.
Main Results:
- Increased use of staining methods enhanced the detection of Cyclospora cayetanensis.
- Significant disease outbreaks in the US (1996-1997) were linked to this parasite.
- Waterborne and foodborne transmission are strongly suspected routes of infection.
Conclusions:
- Cyclospora cayetanensis is a recognized emerging enteric pathogen.
- Understanding transmission routes is crucial for public health interventions.
- Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps and control outbreaks.