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The immunology of cryptococcal disease
1University of Texas Medical School, Program in Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Houston 77225.
Seminars in Respiratory Infections
|March 1, 1986
Summary
Cryptococcus neoformans infection control depends on host immune responses. Cell-mediated and humoral immunity are crucial, especially T lymphocyte defenses, for preventing disseminated cryptococcosis.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cryptococcus neoformans is a common soil fungus.
- Inhalation can lead to localized or disseminated disease.
- Host immune responses determine infection outcome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the host immune mechanisms against Cryptococcus neoformans.
- To understand factors influencing control versus dissemination of infection.
Main Methods:
- Review of host immune responses including phagocytosis, complement activation, and lymphocyte functions.
- Analysis of humoral immunity (antibody production) and cell-mediated immunity (T lymphocytes).
Main Results:
- Polymorphonuclear leukocytes and macrophages are key in early phagocytosis.
- Lymphocytes enhance phagocytosis, intracellular killing, and inhibit fungal growth.
- Humoral and cell-mediated immunity provide protection in normal hosts.
- T lymphocyte-dependent defenses are critical in immunocompromised individuals.
Conclusions:
- Effective control of Cryptococcus neoformans relies on a robust immune response.
- Impaired T lymphocyte function significantly increases susceptibility to disseminated disease.
- The role of humoral immunity in patients with gammopathies warrants further investigation.