Figure 14-49.

Cryptococcosis, Thalamus, Cerebellum, and Mesencephalon, Transverse Sections, Cat.

Note the “cavitational” lesions caused by Cryptococcus neoformans (arrows). Although the lesions look like cavities, they are filled with microbes, and the faint gray appearance is caused by the mucinous capsules of numerous cryptococci. Cryptococcus neoformans usually induces a granulomatous inflammation in most domestic animals, but in some animals, especially the cat, inflammation is minimal or absent.

(Courtesy Dr. M.D. McGavin, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee.)