Cryptosporidium parvum Mediated Diarrhea in Immunocompromised Patients

Abstract

Cryptosporidium parvum is one of the important diarrheal agents, especially in malnourished children and immunocompromised patients. Of the many species, Cryptosporidium parvum and Cryptosporidium hominis are the two major species that cause water borne outbreaks. The geographic difference in the distribution of parasite has been attributed to sources and its mode of transmission. The parasite is able to survive in the environment for long time and is resistant to many disinfectants. There is correlation between CD4 count of less than 200 cells per cubic mm and symptomatic cryptosporidiosis. In immunocompromised individuals like acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients, the disease takes severe form. The diarrhoea is prolonged with dehydration and possible involvement of respiratory tract. Both innate and acquired immunity provide antiparasitic defence. Mucosal antibody response may be involved. Cell-mediated response and IFN-γ play a dominant role. Antimicrobial killing mechanisms include nitric oxide production and antimicrobial peptides. Acid fast staining is most commonly used method for diagnosis. Antigen detection kits are available with specificity of 93 to 100%. Nitazoxanide has been approved for treatment of diarrhea caused by Cryptosporidium in immunocompetent people. Preventive measures include protective personal and public hygienic measures. It is essential to screen potable water sources for the presence of parasite to prevent water borne outbreaks.

Keywords: Cryptosporidium parvum, diarrhea, immunocompromised, immune response, laboratory diagnosis, out breaks

Cite this Article

Durgadas Govind Naik. Cryptosporidium parvum Mediated Diarrhea in Immunocompromised Patients. Research & Reviews: Journal of Immunology. 2016; 6(3): 5–9p.