Pneumocystis jirovecii is a fungal pathogen that causes pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), a severe lung infection primarily affecting immunocompromised individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, and individuals on long-term immunosuppressive therapy. Unlike most fungal infections, P. jirovecii does not respond to standard antifungal medications, as it behaves more like a protozoan and requires specific treatments.
PCP manifests with symptoms including fever, a dry cough, shortness of breath, and fatigue. If left untreated, the infection can lead to severe respiratory distress and even be fatal. In high-risk populations, PCP is one of the leading causes of pneumonia-related deaths.
Treatment typically involves a combination of antibiotics such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), and additional oxygen support may be required in severe cases. Preventive measures, including prophylactic antibiotics for high-risk individuals, are essential in reducing the incidence of PCP. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for managing this infection and improving survival rates in vulnerable populations.
