Which organism is characterized by spherules containing endospores found in a sputum specimen?

Which organism is characterized by spherules containing endospores found in a sputum specimen?

• A. Cryptococcus neoformans
• B. Penicillium marneffei
• C. Coccidioides immitis
• D. Scopulariopsis spp.

Answer: (C)

Coccidioides immitis is known for producing spherules that contain endospores, which are significant in diagnosing coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever. When the organism enters the body, particularly the lungs, it can develop spherules that filled with numerous endospores. This characteristic morphology is crucial when examining sputum samples under a microscope or during culture. The presence of spherules can indicate an active infection, as they are a distinct feature associated with Coccidioides immitis. It’s also important to recognize that these spherules can rupture, releasing endospores that may go on to create new spherules, facilitating the spread of the infection. The other organisms listed have different characteristics and do not form spherules containing endospores. For instance, Cryptococcus neoformans produces large capsules but not spherules, while Penicillium marneffei is a mold and does not present with spherules either. Scopulariopsis species are also mold but do not produce endosporic structures similar to those of Coccidioides immitis. Understanding the unique features of each organism is essential for accurate diagnosis

Coccidioides immitis is known for producing spherules that contain endospores, which are significant in diagnosing coccidioidomycosis, also known as Valley fever. When the organism enters the body, particularly the lungs, it can develop spherules that filled with numerous endospores. This characteristic morphology is crucial when examining sputum samples under a microscope or during culture.

The presence of spherules can indicate an active infection, as they are a distinct feature associated with Coccidioides immitis. It’s also important to recognize that these spherules can rupture, releasing endospores that may go on to create new spherules, facilitating the spread of the infection.

The other organisms listed have different characteristics and do not form spherules containing endospores. For instance, Cryptococcus neoformans produces large capsules but not spherules, while Penicillium marneffei is a mold and does not present with spherules either. Scopulariopsis species are also mold but do not produce endosporic structures similar to those of Coccidioides immitis. Understanding the unique features of each organism is essential for accurate diagnosis