Cryptococcal pathogenic mechanisms: a dangerous trip from the environment to the brain.

Cryptococcus neoformans is an opportunistic pathogenic yeast that causes serious infections, most commonly of the central nervous system (CNS). C. neoformans is mainly found in the environment and acquired by inhalation.

Pedicure-associated rapidly growing mycobacterial infection: an endemic disease.

Background: Pedicure-associated nontuberculous mycobacterial furunculosis has been reported in the setting of either outbreaks or sporadic case reports. The epidemiology of these infections is not well understood.

Methods: Systematic surveillance for pedicure-associated nontuberculous mycobacterial furunculosis was conducted in 2 North Carolina counties from 1 January 2005 through 31 December 2008.