Work

Prevention of Infection Due toPneumocystisspp. in Human Immunodeficiency Virus-Negative Immunocompromised Patients

Year: 2004

Type: review

Abstract: Pneumocystis infection in humans was originally described in 1942. The organism was initially thought to be a protozoan, but more recent data suggest that it is more closely related to the fungi. Patients with cellular immune deficiencies are at risk for the development of symptomatic Pneumocystis infection. Populations at risk also include patients with hematologic and nonhematologic malignancies, hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients, solid-organ recipients, and patients receiving immunosuppressive therapies for connective tissue disorders and vasculitides. Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is the agent of choice for prophylaxis against Pneumocystis unless a clear contraindication is identified. Other options include pentamidine, dapsone, dapsone-pyrimethamine, and atovaquone. The risk for PCP varies based on individual immune defects, regional differences, and immunosuppressive regimens. Prophylactic strategies must be linked to an ongoing assessment of the patient's risk for disease.

Source: Clinical Microbiology Reviews

DOI: 10.1128/cmr.17.4.770-782.2004

Authors: Martin Rodriguez, Jay A. Fishman

Institution: Massachusetts General Hospital

Language: English

Topic: Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia detection and treatment

Subfield: Epidemiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: Pfizer, Gilead Sciences