Emergence of Cryptococcus gattii in Western North America
Author Information
Author(s): Kausik Datta, Karen H. Bartlett, Kieren A. Marr
Primary Institution: Johns Hopkins University
Hypothesis
The emergence of Cryptococcus gattii in the Pacific Northwest may be linked to changing climate conditions and land use.
Conclusion
Cryptococcus gattii has emerged as a significant pathogen in Western North America, posing increased risks to human and animal health.
Supporting Evidence
- More than 200 cases of C. gattii have been documented in humans.
- The average annual incidence of C. gattii is 27.9 cases per million on Vancouver Island.
- The case fatality rate from C. gattii disease was estimated to be 4.5% between 1999 and 2006.
- C. gattii can survive in a variety of climates, including tropical and temperate regions.
- Environmental sampling showed high concentrations of C. gattii in soil and air in the Pacific Northwest.
Takeaway
A fungus called Cryptococcus gattii has started making people and animals sick in the Pacific Northwest, likely because of changes in the environment.
Methodology
The study involved genetic typing, epidemiological tracking, and ecological niche modeling to understand the emergence and spread of C. gattii.
Limitations
The exact origins of C. gattii strains and the full impact of climate change on its emergence remain unclear.
Participant Demographics
The study focused on cases in humans and domestic animals in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in British Columbia and the Northwestern United States.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
0.56–0.92
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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