The Cryptosporidium parasite causes disease in humans through ingestion of infectious oocysts in contaminated water or food, and by direct contact with fecal material from individuals or animals actively shedding oocysts. Two species of Cryptosporidium cause disease in humans, Cryptosporidium hominis and Cryptosporidium parvum. C. hominis is more prevalent in the US, South America, Australia, and Africa, while C. parvum accounts for most cases in Europe. Along with Giardia, Cryptosporidium is the most common parasitic cause of diarrheal illness in the US and other developed nations.
The main symptom of Cryptosporidium infection is voluminous diarrhea lasting one to 14 days, often accompanied by abdominal cramps, fatigue, vomiting, fever, and malaise. Immuno-compromised individuals can develop severe cases of C. parvum infection with profuse, cholera-like diarrhea. Routes of infection are via contaminated water (recreational or drinking), or by contact with infected animals (mammals, birds, reptiles). Antibiotics may be considered for prolonged illness or immunocompromised. Antimotility agents and/or nitazoxanide 500mg twice daily for 3 days may be utilized for immunocompetent individuals. Animal studies indicate that the probiotics Lactobacillus reuteri or L. acidophilus reduced oocyte shedding. No specific herbal parasiticides are listed in scientific literature. Allium sativum (garlic), Berberis vulgaris (barberry), Berberis aquifolium (Oregon grape), Pimpinella anisum (anise), Artemisia annua (wormwood), Mentha crispa (curly mint), and Juglans nigra (black walnut) may be considered or used adjunctively, based on historical uses of these herbs. Nutritional support may include oral rehydration therapy and a lactose-free diet.
Cryptosporidium (C. parvum and C. hominis)
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