Cryptococcus neoformans in fecal matter of birds kept in cages--Control of Cr. neoformans habitats.

The occurrence of cryptococcosis in predamaged persons in whom the fecal matter of caged birds had been suspected as the source of infection has led to the present investigation. In the excreta of only four out of a total of 142 bird species kept by the Berlin Zoological Gardens, Cryptococcus neoformans could be demonstrated with the aid of Guizotia abyssinica creatinine agar: Twany Frogmouth (Podargus strigoides, G. Eulenschwalm); Palm Cockatoo (Probosciger aterrimus, G. Arakakadu); Military Macaw (Ara militaris, G. Soldatenara); Gray Parrot (Psittacus erithacus, G. Graupapagei). The importance of the fecal matter from caged birds for the epidemiology of cryptococcosis is pointed out. It is recommended to perform a mycological control of pet shops and zoological gardens to prevent the infection of susceptible persons.