Wright's stain, 1000x

Cryptococcosis is the most frequent mycotic infection in cats. Many systems can be infected including the respiratory tract, the skin, the nervous system, and the eyes. Infections of the upper respiratory tract are most frequent, followed by cutaneous infection. Cryptococcus neoformans has a clear capsule of variable thickness; it is sometimes possible to find poorly encapsulated forms. A diagnosis can be confirmed by cytology, culture, or serologic testing. This infection can also be encountered to a lesser extent in other species including people.