MEDICAL DICTIONARY
Pneumocystis pneumonia : A fungal infection of the lungs that is particularly common and life-threatening in premature or malnourished infants and in immunosuppressed persons. Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is the most common opportunistic infection in people infected with HIV ( human immunodeficiency virus ).
PCP causes fever, cough, shortness of breath and cyanosis . Untreated, it leads to pulmonary consolidation, low blood oxygen levels, and death.
The diagnosis of PCP requires microscopical identification of pneumocystis from a source such as sputum , bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, or lung tissue, because pneumocystis cannot be cultured in the laboratory. The most common treatment for PCP is trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. Preventative treatment ( prophylaxis ) is available to prevent PCP in persons at elevated risk.
See also: Pneumocystis .
|
DISCLAIMER:
Information on this site is provided for informational
purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice
provided by your own physician or other medical professional.
You should not use the information contained herein
for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease,
or prescribing any medication. You should read carefully
all product packaging. Not all Canadian drugs, Canada
prescription and Canadian prescription medicine is available
at discount Canadian on line pharmacies. If you have
or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly
contact your health care provider. Information and statements
regarding diet supplements have not been evaluated by
Health Canada and are not intended to diagnose, treat,
cure, or prevent any disease. All trade and service
marks mentioned on this site are recognized as belonging
to their respective owners.
|
|
|
|
