1. A microscopic parasitic protozoan that infects the intestines of humans and animals, causing severe diarrhea and gastrointestinal illness.
Usage: Medical/scientific term; Often used in medical and public health contexts; Commonly abbreviated as 'crypto' in informal medical discussion

Examples

• The water contamination was traced to cryptosporidium, which affected hundreds of residents.
• Cryptosporidium is particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.
• The outbreak of cryptosporidium in the municipal water supply prompted a boil-water advisory.
• Symptoms of cryptosporidium infection include severe watery diarrhea and abdominal cramps.
• Proper water filtration can help prevent cryptosporidium contamination in drinking water.
• The laboratory identified cryptosporidium oocysts in the patient's stool sample.