CRYPTOSPORIDIUM AND CRYPTOSPORIDIOSIS

The tiny, iodine- and chlorine-resistant protozoan oocysts of Cryptosp oridium parvum, long recognized by veterinarians, have become increasi ngly noted as a cause of watery diarrhea in developed and developing c ountries throughout the world For immunocompromised patients, particul arly those with AIDS, this diarrhea can be severe and life-threatening . Clovis Martins and Richard Guerrant here discuss the increasing reco gnition of this important pathogen in immunocompetent Patients as well , and outline new challenges to improved water treatment, immunologic and antiparasite chemotherapy.