Cryptosporidium spp. in reptiles: Detection challenges, molecular characterization and zoonotic risk

<i>Cryptosporidium</i> genus includes protozoan parasites that pose significant health risks to a wide range of hosts, including reptiles. Understanding their prevalence and molecular characteristics is crucial for addressing the diagnostic challenges and potential zoonotic transmission associated with these organisms. This research focuses on the prevalence and molecular characterization of <i>Cryptosporidium</i> spp. in reptiles, highlighting the diagnostic challenges and potential risks for zoonotic transmission. A total of 43 reptile fecal samples from 14 different species were examined using three diagnostic techniques: polymerase chain reaction (PCR), modified Ziehl-Neelsen staining (MZN), and direct immunofluorescence antibody test (DFA). The findings revealed a positivity rate of 41.9 % (18/43) for <i>Cryptosporidium</i> spp., with PCR showing the highest sensitivity at 94.4 %, followed by MZN at 61.1 %, and DFA at 33.3 %. Sequence analysis identified six distinct species of <i>Cryptosporidium</i>, including zoonotic species like <i>C. muris</i>, <i>C. tyzzeri</i>, and <i>C. ditrichi</i>, which raises significant public health concerns as reptiles become increasingly popular as pets. The study points out the limitations of conventional diagnostic methods and the need for improved diagnostic approaches, which should include <i>Cryptosporidium</i> species identification.