Doenças Infecciosas Clínicas: Acesso Aberto

Candida Unveiled: Delving into Common Fungal Culprits, from Cryptococcus to Candida

Abstract

Jasmine Mohammed

Fungi, microscopic organisms that often escape our notice, play a significant role in various aspects of our lives, both beneficial and detrimental. Among them, Cryptococcus and Candida stand out as common fungal culprits with the potential to cause health complications. Cryptococcus is a genus of fungi that includes several species known for their association with human and animal infections. Among these, Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii are the most clinically significant. These fungi are encapsulated yeasts and they are commonly found in the environment, particularly in soil enriched with bird droppings. Cryptococcus infections, though relatively rare, can pose serious health risks, especially to individuals with weakened immune systems.