Phenotyping of Cryptococcus neoformans strains in Bergamo, Italy (1985-2000).

Cryptococcus neoformans is the cause of the most common life-threatening fungal infection in patients with AIDS. Thirty strains of C. neoformans were collected from inpatients and typied evaluating activity, morphotyping, serotyping, chemosensitivity and adhesivity. Cryptococcus neoformans strains showed different aspectotype profile, the sole presence of serotypes A and D, good susceptibility to azoles and Amphotericin B. Phenotypic epidemiologic markers can be used: characterization of clinical strains excludes a common source.