Respiratory cryptosporidiosis in the acquired immune deficiency syndrome. Use of modified cold Kinyoun and Hemacolor stains for rapid diagnoses

Abstract

Three cases of primary intestinal cryptosporidiosis with bilateral interstitial pneumonia are reported. The diagnoses were made using 2 rapid (1-min) staining procedures, modified cold Kinyoun''s solution and a Hemacolor set, on touch preparations of lung biopsy material, sputum and stool. Intracellular cryptosporidia oocysts in alveolar macrophages suggest possible hematogenous spread of this agent. Opportunistic cryptosporidiosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of pneumonia in patients with acquired immune deficiency syndrome.