Pulmonary cryptosporidiosis in HIV negative, immunocompromised host

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Parasitology

Background:

• Cryptosporidium parvum typically causes intestinal infections.
• Extra-intestinal cryptosporidiosis, particularly pulmonary, is rare.
• Pulmonary cryptosporidiosis is seldom reported in non-HIV immunocompromised individuals.

Observation:

• A 10-year-old child with nephrotic syndrome on corticosteroids presented with a 3-month history of respiratory symptoms.
• The child was HIV-negative with normal immunoglobulin levels (IgG, IgA, IgM).
• Gastrointestinal Cryptosporidium parvum infection was diagnosed concurrently.

Findings:

• The case demonstrates respiratory infection caused by Cryptosporidium parvum in an immunocompromised child without HIV.
• This presentation is unusual, as pulmonary cryptosporidiosis is rarely documented in this patient population.
• The findings suggest corticosteroids may predispose to extra-intestinal Cryptosporidium infections.

Implications:

• Highlights the potential for Cryptosporidium parvum to cause pulmonary disease in immunocompromised individuals, even without HIV.
• Suggests considering Cryptosporidium in the differential diagnosis of respiratory infections in immunocompromised patients on immunosuppressive therapy.
• Underscores the importance of recognizing extra-intestinal manifestations of cryptosporidiosis in specific clinical contexts.