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[Last Modified: ]

February 2010
Answer to Case 269

This case represented a mixed infection with Cyclospora sp. and Cryptosporidium sp.  Diagnostic morphologic features shown in the figures were:

  • a size range for the unstained objects which was consistent with Cyclospora sp. (blue arrow, Figure A).
  • unstained oocysts with a wrinkled appearance in the modified acid-fast stain, another characteristic of Cyclospora sp.  All of the oocysts shown in this case were unstained, which is not uncommon.
  • a size range for the stained objects which was consistent with Cryptosporidium sp. (red arrow, Figure A).
  • the presence of sporozoites in some of the Cryptosporidium oocysts.

Morphology can only identify Cryptosporidium and Cyclospora to the genus level.  Molecular testing (PCR) of appropriate specimens should be performed to identify the parasites to the species level.
 
Case 269 Image A
A
 

For more information on cryptosporidiosis please click here.
For more information on cyclosporiasis please click here.

 
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