[Isolation of oocysts of Cryptosporidium sp. in loose stools of patients with AIDS and of immunocompetent children and adults in São Paulo, Brazil].

On the aim of knowing better the prevalence of cryptosporidiosis in Brazil, we performed a survey, in São Paulo, in loose stools of patients with AIDS and immunocompetent children and adults. Using strict methods oocysts of Cryptosporidium sp. were found in 10.4% of the samples; higher rates were observed for patients with AIDS, and children attending day-care centers. The result observed may be considered important and indicate the need to include the search of this organism in routine stool examination.