Which fungal organism is uniquely identified by a thick polysaccharide capsule that appears as a clear 'halo' on an India Ink preparation?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Cryptococcus neoformans
Cryptococcus neoformans possesses a prominent virulence-associated capsule composed of glucuronoxylomannan. The capsule excludes the particles of India ink, creating a diagnostic translucent zone around the yeast cell.
Keep practicing
More Fungal Infections questions
- A lung biopsy from a patient in the Ohio River Valley shows small, 2–4 micrometer intracellular yeasts within macrophages. This finding is…
- What is the characteristic morphological feature of Aspergillus species in tissue sections?
- The presence of 'spherules' containing numerous endospores in a lung specimen is diagnostic for which infection?
- A biopsy of a skin lesion on a gardener's arm shows granulomatous inflammation and small, cigar-shaped yeasts. What is the most likely caus…
- Which of the following fungi is known for producing 'broad-based budding' yeasts in tissue?
- In a patient with AIDS, a lung wash reveals 'crushed ping-pong ball' appearing cysts on GMS stain. What is the diagnosis?