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[Isolation of Cryptococcus neoformans from environments (pigeon excreta) in Nagasaki]
1Second Department of Internal Medicine, Nagasaki University School of Medicine.
Abstract:
Cryptococcosis is one of the serious deep-seated mycoses in immunocompromised patients, especially those with AIDS. Cryptococcus neoformans ordinarily lives in natural environments such as soil and reproduces in pigeon excreta. It spreads in the air and infects human by inhalation. We isolated C. neoformans from pigeon excreta in hospitals, private houses, parks in Nagasaki from October to December in 1994. C. neoformans was isolated from 4 of 8 samples (50%) of pigeon excreta and the isolation rate increased to 80% (4/5) if they were weathered excreta. Two patients with pulmonary cryptococcosis occurred in the last two years in the area where C. neoformans was isolated during that period. Epidemiological studies of clinical isolates and environmental isolates are important to determine its origin of infection and the route of transmission.
Insights
Cryptococcus neoformans, a fungus causing cryptococcosis, was found in Nagasaki pigeon droppings. This airborne fungus can infect humans, particularly those with weakened immune systems.
Area of Science:
- Medical Mycology
- Environmental Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cryptococcosis is a severe fungal infection primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals, notably those with AIDS.
- Cryptococcus neoformans, the causative agent, is commonly found in soil and pigeon excreta.
- Transmission occurs through inhalation of airborne fungal particles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of Cryptococcus neoformans in environmental pigeon droppings in Nagasaki.
- To correlate environmental findings with local clinical cases of cryptococcosis.
Main Methods:
- Environmental sampling of pigeon excreta from various locations in Nagasaki (hospitals, houses, parks) between October and December 1994.
- Isolation and identification of Cryptococcus neoformans from collected samples.
- Review of local pulmonary cryptococcosis cases during the study period.
Main Results:
- Cryptococcus neoformans was isolated from 50% of pigeon excreta samples.
- Isolation rates increased to 80% in weathered excreta samples.
- Two cases of pulmonary cryptococcosis were reported in the area during the study period.
Conclusions:
- Pigeon excreta serves as a significant environmental reservoir for Cryptococcus neoformans in Nagasaki.
- Environmental surveillance and epidemiological studies are crucial for understanding cryptococcosis transmission dynamics.
- Identifying environmental sources aids in preventing infections in at-risk populations.