Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) : Symptoms & Treatment
Symptoms of Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP)
Symptoms of PCP can include coughing, fever, shortness of breath, fatigue, and weight loss. The symptoms may develop slowly over time or appear suddenly, depending on the severity of the infection. The diagnosis of PCP is typically made through a combination of imaging tests, such as a chest X-ray or CT scan, and laboratory tests, such as bronchoscopy with a biopsy.
Treatment And Prevention of Human parainfluenza virus (HPIV)
Treatment for PCP usually involves medication, such as trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, which is an antibiotic that is effective against Pneumocystis jirovecii. Other medications, such as pentamidine, atovaquone, or dapsone, may be used as alternatives for those who are allergic or cannot tolerate trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Supportive care, such as oxygen therapy, may also be necessary in severe cases.
Preventing PCP involves managing underlying medical conditions that weaken the immune system and taking prophylactic medication to prevent infection in high-risk individuals, such as those with HIV/AIDS. Vaccines are not available for PCP, but vaccination against other respiratory infections, such as influenza and pneumococcal pneumonia, may help reduce the risk of developing PCP.
