Pneumocystis pneumonia

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Pneumocystis pneumonia
Micrograph of Pneumocystis jirovecii in lung tissue
Synonyms PCP, Pneumocystosis
Pronounce N/A
Specialty N/A
Symptoms Cough, fever, shortness of breath, chest pain
Complications Respiratory failure, pneumothorax
Onset Gradual
Duration Weeks to months
Types N/A
Causes Pneumocystis jirovecii
Risks HIV/AIDS, immunosuppressive therapy, organ transplantation
Diagnosis Chest X-ray, CT scan, sputum culture, bronchoalveolar lavage
Differential diagnosis Bacterial pneumonia, tuberculosis, fungal infections
Prevention Prophylactic antibiotics (e.g., trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole)
Treatment Antibiotics (e.g., trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, pentamidine)
Medication Corticosteroids for severe cases
Prognosis Variable, depends on underlying conditions
Frequency Common in HIV/AIDS patients
Deaths Significant if untreated


Pneumocystis pneumonia (also known as PCP) is a form of pneumonia, an inflammatory condition of the lung affecting primarily the microscopic air sacs known as alveoli, that is caused by the yeast-like fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii. CT of bilateral pneumothoraces by pneumocystis pneumonia cysts

Signs and symptoms[edit | edit source]

The most common symptoms of PCP are cough, fever, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms can include chills, night sweats, chest pain, and fatigue.

Cause[edit | edit source]

PCP is caused by the yeast-like fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii. It is not known exactly how this organism is spread, but it is believed to be airborne.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of PCP can be challenging, as the symptoms are similar to those of other forms of pneumonia. The diagnosis is usually confirmed by identifying Pneumocystis jirovecii in a sample of lung tissue or fluid.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for PCP typically involves a combination of antibiotics and corticosteroids. The specific medications used may vary depending on the severity of the infection and the patient's overall health.

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

With treatment, most people with PCP can recover. However, the condition can be life-threatening, particularly in those with weakened immune systems.

Prevention[edit | edit source]

Prevention of PCP involves taking steps to avoid exposure to Pneumocystis jirovecii and to strengthen the immune system.

See also[edit | edit source]

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