Cryptosporidia Infection (Diarrheal Parasite Infection)
Description
A diarrheal disease caused by microscopic parasites of the genus Cryptosporidium. Both the disease and the parasite are commonly known as "Crypto." Infection usually occurs by ingesting the parasite and results in diarrhea. It is the organism most commonly isolated in HIV positive patients presenting with diarrhea. Treatment is symptomatic, with fluid rehydration, electrolyte correction and management of any pain.
Symptoms
Abdominal cramping, dehydration, nausea, vomiting, fever, weight loss.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Identification of the parasite in the stool is determined either by special stains, direct fluorescent antibody [DFA] , and/or enzyme immunoassays. Molecular methods (e.g., polymerase chain reaction – PCR) are increasingly being used for identification as well.
- CBC
- Chem 12
Treatment
Usually a self-limited disease that requires no specific therapy besides treating dehydration. Nitazoxanide has been FDA-approved for treatment of diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium in people with healthy immune systems and is available by prescription. However, the effectiveness of nitazoxanide in immunosuppressed individuals (i.e. HIV disease) is unclear. The immunocompromised patient may experience a chronic infection.
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