 Correct Answer: E Explanation: The most widely used diagnostic test is the modified acid-fast or Kinyoun stain. It is used to detect Cryptosporidium in stool samples. Several immunofluorescent assays are also available, which test for antibodies to the parasite in the blood. Some pharmaceutical companies have produced rapid-result commercial assays, which are moderately successful (~75% detection rate). Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) techniques might also prove to be effective in diagnosing infection. Treatment usually is not required for cryptosporidiosis in patients who are immunocompetent, and no clinical trials have convincingly demonstrated the efficacy of antimicrobics. |
Labels: USMLE Step 2 MCQ Answers
