Cryptosporidium species

Cryptosporidium species
Phase contrast x 400

Phase microscopy enhances the visibility of Cryptosporidium species.

The Coccidians are seen more frequently in immunocompromised individuals.

Oocysts are spherical to subspherical, measuring from 4-6 mm. They are sometimes referred to as "pac-man".

The oocysts contain four sporozoites.

Diagnosis in the form of wet mount should be discouraged. The organism is best recovered by the Kinyoun acid-fast stain shown on the right (x 1000).