2nd August 2023

Cryptosporidiosis

Cryptosporidiosis is the most common form of protozoal diarrhoea encountered in the UK. It is largely self-limiting but can be life-threatening in immunocompromised patients. It usually presents with watery diarrhoea, crampy abdominal pain, fever, nausea and vomiting, lasting over 1 to 2 weeks.

In immunocompromised patients, symptoms can progress to complications, including cholangitis and pancreatitis. Diagnosis is through stool microscopy revealing red cysts with modified Ziehl-Neelsen stains. Treatment is mainly supportive; however, nitazoxanide can be used in severe cases. In HIV patients, commencing antiretroviral therapy usually resolves symptoms.