Cryptosporidium parvum – zoonotic subtype IIdA15G1 in a Slovakian patient

Abstract

Introduction and objectives The parasite Cryptosporidium spp. is an intracellular protozoa which has a broad range of hosts and zoonotic potential. It presents a serious health risk for agricultural workers and veterinarians. The aim of the study was to identify the species and subtypes of Cryptosporidium occurring in a veterinary student who came into contact with calves on a farm. Material and Methods The Ziehl-Neelsen staining technique was employed to confirm the presence of Cryptosporidium oocysts. ELISA test was applied to detect coproantigen in faecal specimens. Nested PCR was used to amplify a small ribosomal subunit (SSU rRNA) and sequencing of the GP60 gene served to identify the zoonotic subtypes. Results The nested PCR allowed to confirm the C. parvum species; subsequently, the IIdA15G1 zoonotic subtype was identified. Conclusions This is the first confirmed case in Slovakia of human cryptosporidiosis caused by the unique subtype IIdA15G1.

Keywords

• slovakia
• nested pcr
• cryptosporidium spp
• zoonotic subtype
• veterinary student