ABSTRACT
Cryptococcosis is a disease that can range from a transitory asymptomatic pulmonary form to a severe systemic infection generally manifested as meningitis. The etiological agent is an encapsulated yeastlike organism, Cryptococcus neoformans. The hallmark of disseminated cryptococcosis is the presence of cryptococcal antigen in body fluids. Dissemination of cryptococci to extrapulmonary sites is believed to occur through hematogenous spread. Although C. neoformans can be found in many different tissues after dissemination from the lungs, it has a predilection for the central nervous system. Several factors contribute to innate or natural resistance against C. neoformans. These are mechanical, physical, and chemical barriers, and cellular components. Since cryptococci enter the host through the lungs, the various innate resistance features of the respiratory tract are the first to be encountered and are effective in eliminating many, if not most, of the organisms.
