Cryptosporidium parvum

Definition

Cryptosporidium parvum is a unicellular eukaryotic parasite that causes cryptosporidiosis, primarily affecting the intestines. It is known for its resilience in water and resistance to many conventional disinfection methods.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. C. parvum belongs to the phylum Apicomplexa and exhibits a complex life cycle involving both asexual and sexual reproduction.
2. It commonly spreads through contaminated water supplies and can cause severe diarrhea in infected hosts.
3. The oocysts of C. parvum are highly resistant to chlorination, making them difficult to eliminate from drinking water.
4. Diagnosis of cryptosporidiosis typically involves microscopy or molecular techniques such as PCR to detect oocysts in stool samples.
5. In immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, C. parvum infections can be particularly severe and challenging to treat.

Review Questions

• What are the primary modes of transmission for Cryptosporidium parvum?
• How does Cryptosporidium parvum evade standard water treatment processes?
• Why are immunocompromised patients at higher risk for severe cryptosporidiosis?

Related terms

Apicomplexa: A phylum of parasitic protozoa characterized by complex life cycles involving multiple hosts.

Oocyst:

A hardy, thick-walled stage of certain parasites like Cryptosporidium that is excreted in the feces and can survive outside the host.

PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction):

A molecular technique used to amplify and detect DNA sequences, often employed in diagnosing infections caused by organisms like Cryptosporidium.