Etiological factors of cryptococcosis - what makes them pathogens ?

ABSTRACT

A significant participation in the growing prevalence of fungal infections have basidiomycete yeasts of the genus of Cryptococcus. Among about seventy actually known species belonging to Cryptococcus genus there are only two Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii, which as anamorphs in parasitic stage of its life fully evolved the mechanisms predisposing them to be a human and animal pathogens. Specific attributes important in the pathogenesis of cryptococcosis called virulence factors allow them to colonize the mammalian tissues. Undoubtedly, the most important role in the pathogenesis play the presence of polysaccharide capsule, synthesis of melanin, and the ability to grow in the range of temperatures 35-40°C.