What is Pneumocystis carinii infection?

What is Pneumocystis carinii infection?

Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia is a fungal infection of the lungs. The disease used to be called Pneumocystis carini or PCP pneumonia. AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) is caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), and is a syndrome that leaves the body vulnerable to a host of life-threatening illnesses.

What are the symptoms of Pneumocystis carinii?

Pneumocystis Pneumonia Symptoms

  • Fever (It’s usually low if you have HIV and higher if you don’t.)
  • Dry cough or wheezing.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Fatigue.
  • Chest pain or tightness when you breathe.
  • Chills.
  • Weight loss.

How do you know if you have a fungal lung infection?

Fungal lung infection symptoms A feeling of breathlessness. Coughing up sputum or, in severe cases, blood. A general feeling of weakness. Sometimes the infection can cause achy joints.

Who is at risk of infection by Pneumocystis?

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a fungal infection in 1 or both lungs. It is common in people who have a weak immune system, such as people who have AIDS. The disease is less common in the U.S. than it used to be. When it happens, you need medical care right away.

Is Pneumocystis carinii a parasite?

Pneumocystis jirovecii (formerly P. carinii) is an opportunistic parasite possessing some common features of protozoa, but molecular studies have shown greater genetic homology to fungi. Pneumocystis organisms exhibit a high degree of host species specificity, with organisms infecting humans designated as P.

Is pneumocystis pneumonia contagious?

Is Pneumocystis Pneumonia Contagious? PCP is contagious. The fungus that causes it can spread from person to person through the air. People can spread the disease even when they’re healthy and have no symptoms.

What can happen if Pneumocystis pneumonia is not treated?

Your immune system may be weakened by HIV/AIDS, cancer, organ transplant, medicines that suppress the immune system, or another condition that causes the immune system to not function well. PCP takes advantage of your weak immune system to attack your lungs. If not treated right away, PCP can be severe and even fatal.