PCP is due to a tiny fungus calledPneumocystis jiroveciithat is common in the environment.
Pneumocystis pneumonia has a long recorded history, going as far back as 1909.
In the 1980s, PCP became the leading cause of death in people with AIDS.
Johner Images / Getty Images
Johner Images / Getty Images
Most humans are exposed to thePneumocystis jiroveciifungus in childhood.
In healthy children, it often develops along with common cold symptoms and doesnt turn into anything severe.
Pneumocystis jiroveciispreads through the air.
This article discusses the risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of PCP.
Risk Factors
PCP can be a life-threatening condition for people with weakened immune systems.
Oral Thrush
Oral thrush is a fungal infection that mainly affects the mouth and throat.
Most Common Symptoms
Diagnosis
PCP is not always the most obvious illness to diagnose.
Physical Exam
Your healthcare provider will start by discussing your symptoms.
The doctor will use a stethoscope to listen for anything unusual in your lungs.
However, an X-ray is not always conclusive when it comes to PCP.
In fact, a chest X-ray can appear normal in up to 25% of patients diagnosed with PCP.
A CT scan is able to provide a better image of the lungs than an X-ray.
Induced Sputum Test
The surest way to diagnose PCP is through asputum culture.
After a sample is collected, it will be sent to a lab.
In the lab, the sample will be observed under a microscope to look for the fungus.
A bronchoalveolar lavage is another way to collect sputum.
Treatment
There are multiple options for treating PCP.
While in the hospital, you will receive hydration and medication through an intravenous (IV) drip.
You will likely receive supplemental oxygen; in severe cases, you will be put on a ventilator.
Most treatment plans for PCP will last about three weeks.
Many people will begin feeling better within about four to seven days after starting treatment.
The last thing you want to do when fighting PCP is pick up another infection.
The cough is an important mechanism your body uses to get rid of a lung infection.
Prevention
PCP can be more complicated to prevent than other forms of pneumonia.
Prevention relies on following all recommendations of your healthcare provider.
If you have HIV, its essential to take anti-HIV meds to keep your CD4 count above 200.
Eating Healthy
Nutrition is essential to keep your immune system strong.
Eating healthy includes getting protein with every meal, along with foods containing vitamins and minerals.
Protein helps your body repair damaged cells and keeps existing cells healthy.
Avoid Alcohol
Many drugs interact poorly with medications.
In some cases, alcohol will interfere with the medicine you’re taking.
Mental Health
Keeping your mental health in check is essential.
Chronic or excessive stress, anxiety, and depression will weaken your immune system.
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2012;198(6):W555-W561.
