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Cryptosporidium enteritis |
| Definition: |
| Cryptosporidium enteritis is an infection of the small intestine characterized by diarrhea, which is caused by the parasite cryptosporidium. |
| Alternative Names: |
| Cryptosporidiosis |
| Causes, incidence, and risk factors: |
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Cryptosporidium has recently been recognized as a worldwide cause of diarrhea in all age groups -- yet its major impact has been among individuals with weakened immune systems including people with HIV/AIDS and transplant recipients. In such people, this diarrheal infection is not just bothersome but can lead to severe and potentially life-threatening wasting and malnutrition. The major risk factor is ingestion of fecally contaminated water. Young children, animal handlers, people with close contacts of infected individuals, and men who have sex with men are at higher risk. Outbreaks have been linked to contaminated public water supplies, drinking unpasteurized cider, and swimming in contaminated pools and lakes. |
| Symptoms: |
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| Signs and tests: |
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| Treatment: |
| There is no reliable treatment for cryptosporidium enteritis -- certain agents such as paromomycin, atovaquone, nitazoxanide, and azithromycin are sometimes used but they usually have only temporary effects. Currently the best approach is to improve the immune status in immunodeficient individuals (such by using as antiviral therapy in patients with AIDS) in addition to supportive treatment for symptoms. AIDS specialists and patient activists may provide additional information on the latest treatments and on medications and alternative treatments which may provide some relief. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| The infection will clear up in healthy people, although it may last up to a month. In immunosuppressed individuals, prolonged diarrhea with wasting and malnutrition may result. |
| Complications: |
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| Calling your health care provider: |
| Notify your health care provider if you develop watery diarrhea that does not resolve within several days, in particular if you are immunosuppressed. |
| Prevention: |
| Proper sanitation and hygiene are important measures in the prevention of this illness. In addition, boiling water for at least 1 minute is recommended for individuals who are immunosuppressed. Certain commercially available water filters can also reduce risk by filtering out the eggs of the causative organism. |
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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