Detection of Cryptococcus neoformans in bird excreta.
We evaluated 14 samples of bird excreta from pigeons, parrots, open billed storks and crows obtained from thirteen places in Bangkok and nearby areas between April and July 2004. These bird excreta were examined for Cryptococcus neoformans by direct plating method to inspect their ability to grow at 37 degrees C. Capsule production was examined by Indian ink preparation. They were also tested for urease and phenoloxidase enzymes. Cryptococcus neoformans var neoformans was recovered from pigeon excreta in 9.09%. This implies those having impaired immunity may get this fungus from the environment.
Soogarun
Suphan
S
Department of Clinical Microscopy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Wiwanitkit
Viroj
V
Palasuwan
Attakorn
A
Pradniwat
Paweena
P
Suwansaksri
Jamsai
J
Lertlum
Thamaporn
T
Maungkote
Tusrin
T
D000818:Animals; D001717:Birds / Q000382:microbiology*; D002947:Cities; D003455:Cryptococcus neoformans / Q000201:enzymology / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D004197:Disease Reservoirs; D005243:Feces / Q000382:microbiology*; D014442:Monophenol Monooxygenase / Q000032:analysis; D013045:Species Specificity; D013785:Thailand; D014510:Urease / Q000032:analysis
D014442:Monophenol Monooxygenase; D014510:Urease