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Zoonotic transmission of Cryptococcus neoformans from a magpie to an immunocompetent patient

K Lagrou1, J Van Eldere, S Keuleers

  • 1Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University Hospital Leuven, Herestraat, Leuven 3000, Belgium. Katrien.lagrou@uz.kuleuven.ac.be

Journal of Internal Medicine
|March 25, 2005
PubMed

Insights

A pet magpie transmitted cryptococcal meningitis to its owner, an immunocompetent woman. This case highlights the potential for zoonotic transmission of fungal infections from birds.

Area of Science:

  • Infectious Diseases
  • Mycology
  • Zoonoses

Background:

  • Cryptococcal meningitis is a serious fungal infection, typically affecting immunocompromised individuals.
  • Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii is a common fungal species associated with cryptococcosis.

Observation:

  • An immunocompetent female patient developed cryptococcal meningitis.
  • The patient had a pet magpie (Pica pica) with documented exposure.

Findings:

  • Genetically identical Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii strains were isolated from the patient's cerebrospinal fluid and the magpie's excreta.
  • This genetic similarity strongly supports a direct zoonotic transmission event.

Implications:

  • This case suggests birds, specifically magpies, can be a reservoir for Cryptococcus neoformans var. grubii.
  • It underscores the importance of considering zoonotic origins in fungal meningitis, even in immunocompetent hosts.
  • Public health awareness regarding potential fungal infections from pet birds is warranted.

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