Cryptococcus: A Fungal Marker in Your Gut Profile

Cryptococcus is a group of fungal species and may be members of a healthy gut microbiome [1]. Interestingly, bird droppings contain Cryptococcus and stirring up the dust of bird droppings can transmit them to humans. This species can cause infections, particularly in people with weakened immune systems. For example, Cryptococcus neoformans, can cause a severe form of fungal meningitis in people with compromised immune systems [2]. Infections from Cryptococcus can also have a significant impact on the rest of the gut microbiome, leading to ‘dysbiosis’ [3], [4]. (Adapted from Tiny Health)

It is unlikely that Cryptococcus will be an issue if your immune system is functioning normally but we still consider low to undetectable levels to be optimum.