noun
- A genus of encapsulated yeast fungi that can cause serious infections in humans and animals, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
Usage: medical/scientific term; typically used in medical and mycological contexts
Examples
- Cryptococcus neoformans is the most common cause of fungal meningitis in people with HIV/AIDS.
- The laboratory identified cryptococcus in the patient's cerebrospinal fluid.
- Cryptococcal infections can affect the lungs, brain, and other organs.
- Antifungal medications are used to treat cryptococcus infections.
- The yeast cryptococcus is found in soil and bird droppings worldwide.