Cryptosporidium spp

Cryptosporidiosis is an intestinal infection resulting from ingestion of oocysts of the coccidian parasite Cryptosporidium spp. (including Cryptosporidium
parvum, canis, hominis and felis). It is the second most commonly diagnosed intestinal parasite in the UK and its oocysts are resistant to chlorine. It may be associated with swimming or drinking infected water as well as contact with infected lambs and calves when visiting farms. Symptoms commonly include severe watery diarrhoea.

It is most common in children between one and five years of age, and in people who are immunocompromised, where symptoms may be more severe.

Detection of Cryptosporidium spp. oocysts by microscopy

• Sample type: Standard stool sample – Oocysts may be identified in stool samples, by modified Zn staining

Detection of Cryptosporidium spp. by PCR

• See section on Detection of Entamoeba histolytica, Cryptosporidium species and Giardia intestinalis by PCR.

Detection of Cryptosporidium spp. by serology

• Serology is not available for the detection of this parasite.