General Biology

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Abstract
The genus Cryptosporidium is composed of protozoan parasites that infect epithelial cells in the microvillus border of the gastrointestinal tract of all classes of vertebrates. They are found worldwide. Effects of infection vary with the species of Cryptosporidium. Some species of Cryptosporidium infect many host species, whereas others appear restricted to groups such as rodents or ruminants, and still others are known to infect only one host species. Some species primarily infect the stomach, whereas others primarily infect the intestine. Some species are pathogenic, whereas the presence of others has not been shown to be related to any disease manifestations. Some infections are acute and self-limiting, whereas others are chronic. The severity and duration of infection with pathogenic species are also affected by 2the immune status of the infected person or animal. Immunocompetent individuals might suffer mild, moderate, or severe acute illness, whereas immunocompromised individuals can suffer severe chronic illness and even death.

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