The fungus Pneumocystis jiroveci is the cause of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP), formerly known as Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), a
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The fungus Pneumocystis jiroveci is the cause of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP), formerly known as Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP), a potentially fatal lung infection. People with compromised immune systems such as those living with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, recipients of organ transplants, or those on immunosuppressive drugs are more susceptible to contracting this virus.PJP commonly manifests as nonspecific symptoms asexhaustion, shortness of breath, fever, and dry cough. If treatment is not received, these symptoms could get worse quickly and cause serious respiratory distress. PJP is frequently an AIDS-defining condition in HIV-positive people, indicating severe immunosuppression.Clinical suspicion based on symptoms and risk factors, in addition to radiological findings such diffuse bilateral infiltrates on a chest X-ray or computed tomography (CT) scan, are used to diagnose peripheral neuropathy (PJP). Usually, microscopic analysis of respiratory specimens—such as induced sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid—is used to confirm the diagnosis. This allows for the visualization of distinctive cysts or trophic forms of Pneumocystis jiroveci using specialized staining techniques.PJP is typically treated with a combination of supportive care and antibiotic medication. Because of its affordability and effectiveness, trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is the first-line treatment for PJP. Pentamidine, dapsone plus trimethoprim, or atovaquone are possible substitute regimens for people who cannot take TMP-SMX or who have contraindications. In patients with severe PJP and hypoxemia, adjunctive corticosteroid therapy may be taken into consideration.The severity of the illness and the patient's underlying immunological state both affect the prognosis of PJP. Most PJP patients see clinical improvement after receiving an early diagnosis and suitable treatment. However, respiratory failure and mortality can result from poor therapy or delayed diagnosis, especially in those with substantial immunosuppression or advanced HIV disease.In people at high risk, prevention of PJP is essential. In order to prevent recurrence, this may include secondary prophylaxis in persons who have recovered from an episode of PJP or primary prophylaxis with TMP-SMX in HIV-infected individuals with low CD4 levels. The risk of getting PJP can also be decreased by working to increase access to antiretroviral medication and enhance immune function in HIV-positive people.
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