A Seattle woman with HIV complains of headaches and also displays some memory loss.Because of her history, the physician collects cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and sends it to the laboratory for analysis.The following image is seen using India ink stain.What is the most likely identification of this organism?

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Cryptococcus spp.are important causes of meningitis, pulmonary disease, and septicemia.C.neoformans, the most notable pathogen in this genus, has become a major cause of opportunistic infection in patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).Cryptococcus spp.express a capsule that produces the characteristic mucoid colony.The capsule can be detected surrounding the budding yeast in spinal fluid with the aid of India ink or Nigrosin.Cryptococcus gattii is an emerging pathogen, particularly in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.CDC PHIL #3771

A Seattle Woman with HIV Complains of Headaches and Also