Cryptococcus neoformans


Cryp·to·coc·cus ne·o·for·'mans

a species that causes cryptococcosis in humans and other mammals, particularly the cat family. Cells are spheric and reproduce by budding; a prominent feature is a polysaccharide capsule. Cryptococcus neoformans var. neoformans has a worldwide distribution and can often be isolated from weathered pigeon droppings. Cryptococcus neoformans var. gattii causes cryptococcosis in subtropical and tropical climates. This variety has been isolated from foliage and litter of species of eucalyptus.

Cryp·to·coc·cus ne·o·for·mans

(krip-tō-kokŭs nē-ō-fōrmanz) Fungal species that causes cryptococcosis in humans and other mammals, particularly the cat family. Some species isolated from foliage of species of eucalyptus trees.