Pneumocystis

Definition

Pneumocystis is a genus of fungi, primarily known for causing Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) in immunocompromised individuals. It is often resistant to conventional antifungal treatments, necessitating specific antimicrobial drugs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pneumocystis jirovecii is the species responsible for PCP in humans.
2. PCP is an opportunistic infection commonly seen in patients with HIV/AIDS.
3. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) is the first-line treatment for PCP.
4. Pneumocystis lacks ergosterol in its cell membrane, which makes it resistant to many antifungal drugs that target ergosterol synthesis.
5. Diagnosis of PCP often involves bronchoalveolar lavage and staining techniques to identify the organism.

Review Questions

• What species of Pneumocystis causes pneumonia in humans?
• Why is Pneumocystis resistant to many conventional antifungal treatments?
• What is the preferred first-line treatment for Pneumocystis pneumonia?

Related terms

Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX): A combination antibiotic used as the first-line treatment for PCP.

Opportunistic Infection: An infection caused by pathogens that take advantage of a weakened immune system.

Bronchoalveolar Lavage: A diagnostic procedure to collect samples from the lower respiratory tract, often used to diagnose PCP.