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Cryptococcosis: update and emergence of Cryptococcus gattii
Sally J Lester1, Richard Malik, Karen H Bartlett
1Pilchuck Veterinary Hospital, Snohomish, WA, USA. slpathd@aol.com
Veterinary Clinical Pathology
|January 20, 2011
Summary
Cryptococcosis, a global fungal infection, is being reevaluated due to new species classifications. Cryptococcus gattii is emerging as a significant pathogen, particularly in North America, affecting mammals and birds.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Infectious Diseases
- Veterinary Medicine
Background:
- Cryptococcosis is a globally distributed fungal infection.
- Recent taxonomic reclassifications of Cryptococcus species necessitate a reevaluation of the pathogen and its associated diseases.
- Changes in the geographic distribution patterns of Cryptococcus species have been observed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the emergence of Cryptococcus gattii as a primary pathogen.
- To summarize the current understanding of diseases caused by Cryptococcus gattii in mammals and birds.
- To highlight the impact of recent species reclassifications on cryptococcosis research.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on Cryptococcus species.
- Analysis of epidemiological data on Cryptococcus gattii distribution.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on clinical manifestations and pathology in affected animals.
Main Results:
- Cryptococcus gattii has emerged as a significant primary pathogen, especially in North America.
- The review consolidates information on the pathogenicity of C. gattii in diverse hosts.
- Updated species classifications provide a new framework for understanding cryptococcosis.
Conclusions:
- Cryptococcus gattii represents an evolving threat in infectious diseases.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the epidemiology and clinical impact of C. gattii.
- This review provides a comprehensive overview for clinicians and researchers dealing with cryptococcosis.
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