Cryptococcus neoformans var. neoformans, which is responsible for AIDS-associated cryptococcosis in Bujumbura, was isolated in the domestic environment of seven out of 20 patients with AIDS-associated cryptococcosis. The findings prove that in his own domestic environment, the HIV-positive patient in central Africa is frequently exposed to the yeast and these observations lead us to insist on the suitability of carrying out a systematic survey by means of soluble antigens-sensitized latex in every HIV-positive patient. This also proves the importance of a follow-up of the 'cured' patients who easily can be recontaminated after their return home.
PIP: Soil, pigeon droppings, and dust were collected from 20 houses in Bujumbura which were inhabited by AIDS-associated cryptococcosis patients. Cryptocococcus neoformans variant neoformans was isolated from samples in 7 of the houses. This finding suggests that all HIV-positive patients should be tested for cryptococcal antigen and that patients cured of cryptococcosis may be reinfected on their return home.