Stained light micrograph of a liver tissue sample from a patient with cryptococcosis, shown by the presence of Cryptococcus neoformans cells (red). C. neoformans is a common yeast fungus found in soil, trees and bird droppings. When its spores are inhaled it can infect the lungs or central nervous system (CNS), though this typically only occurs in people with compromised immune systems. If the lungs are infected, symptoms can include coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath. If the CNS is infected (cryptococcal meningitis), patients can experience headaches, nausea, light sensitivity and behavioural changes. Treatment typically involves a course of antifungal medication lasting at least 6 months.