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Cyclospora cayetanensis in sputum and stool samples
A B Di Gliullo1, M S Cribari, A J Bava
1Laborario Central, Hospital Petrona V de Cordero, Buenos Aires, 1646, Argentina. julman@cvtci.com.ar
Summary
This study reports the first observation of Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts in respiratory sputum. This finding expands the known clinical manifestations of this emerging parasitic pathogen.
Area of Science:
- Medical Parasitology
- Respiratory Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cyclospora cayetanensis is an emerging intestinal pathogen primarily causing diarrhea.
- Previous literature has not documented C. cayetanensis in respiratory samples.
Observation:
- Acid-fast Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts were identified in the sputum of a 60-year-old male patient with pulmonary symptoms.
- The patient presented with weight loss, cough, dysphonia, and pulmonary fibrosis, with negative sputum for acid-fast bacilli.
Findings:
- Ziehl-Neelsen staining revealed large, spherical, acid-fast C. cayetanensis oocysts (8-10 microm) in sputum.
- Concurrent parasitic findings included Trichuris trichiura, Ascaris lumbricoides, Hymenolepis nana, and Entamoeba coli cysts.
Implications:
- This case represents the first documented instance of Cyclospora cayetanensis oocysts in respiratory specimens.
- The observation suggests potential for respiratory involvement or atypical presentations of C. cayetanensis infections.
- Further research is warranted to understand the clinical significance and transmission routes of C. cayetanensis in respiratory contexts.