INCIDENCE OF cryptococcus neoformans IN BENIN CITY.

ABSTRACT

This epidemiological survey aimed to assess the prevalence and distribution of Cryptococcus neoformans in Benin City. Cryptococcus neoformans is a yeast-like fungus that is encapsulated capable of causing cryptococcosis. Due to its intimate ties to avian habitats, it is frequently discovered in the environment, especially in soil tainted with bird droppings. The fungus is well recognized for its capacity to synthesize polysaccharide capsules, a crucial virulence component that allows it to subvert the immune system of the host. Cryptococcus neoformans has several serotypes, with serotype A (C. neoformans var. grubii) being the most common and clinically relevant. This study employed collecting environmental samples from different markets in Egor, New Benin and Uselu. C. neoformans is grown on Yeast Peptone Dextrose broth and Yeast Peptone Dextrose Agar. Urea Base Agar and Niger Seed Agar were used for selection and virulence test. In this study, 15 different samples were taken from three different markets and the isolation was carried out in the laboratory. The strains of C. neoformans were then screened using urease test and Niger seed agar for melanin production. Most of the C.neoformans tested positive for Urease but the color intensity of each strain varied, indicating that it was either a different serotype or that it had a different level of virulence. From the analysis of the samples, using urease test the result showed that Egor has the highest prevalence rate of 60% with a total of 30 isolates showing positive out of 50. The findings of this study highlight the importance of understanding the epidemiology of C. neoformans for effective prevention and management strategies in this region.