致病真菌在与宿主相互作用过程中可能发生形态学变化，如菌丝形成。这种形态学变化有利于病原菌适应不同的外界环境，使其在宿主体内生存。外有荚膜包裹的隐球菌是隐球菌病的致病真菌。该菌可通过孢子吸入方式侵入宿主体内，其后又能通过增加自身荚膜厚度和形成巨大菌体来抵抗和逃避宿主的免疫防御功能。对于隐球菌形态学变化意义的理解，有助于了解该病的致病机制，从而推动临床诊治发展。

The interaction between fungal pathogens and host frequently results in morphological changes, such as hyphae formation. It is important for fungus to adapt and survive the harsh environment of host. Cryptococcus is an encapsulated yeast species that can cause cryptococcosis. Natural infection begins with inhalation of cryptococcal spores. The enlargement of capsule and formation of giant cells may be the defence strategy that allows Cryptococcus to resist and evade host immune response. Understanding the association between morphological changes and pathogenicity can help us to improve clinical diagnosis and therapy of this disease.