Work

Advances in pathogen detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: • Comprehensive summary of P. jirovecii detection methodologies, including culture, cytology, serology, and nucleic acid amplification testing. • Systematic analysis of clinical specimen utility and constraints, delineating advantages, limitations, and applicable scenarios for diverse sample types. • Multidimensional comparison of diagnostic techniques, synthesizing performance characteristics (sensitivity, specificity, scope) to guide individualized clinical decision-making and optimize diagnostic efficiency. Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is a life-threatening opportunistic fungal infection in immunocompromised populations. Microscopic identification of P. jirovecii cysts or trophozoites in lower respiratory specimens remains the diagnostic gold standard. However, the limited sensitivity, substantial technical demands and prolonged turnaround time inherent to this method hinder its clinical utility for timely and accurate PJP diagnosis. Alternative diagnostic approaches, including cytology, serology, and nucleic acid amplification tests, have been employed, though each carries distinct advantages and limitations. This review evaluates current P. jirovecii detection techniques to guide clinicians in early PJP identification and diagnosis, ultimately improving patient prognosis and reducing healthcare system burdens.

Source: Infectious Medicine

DOI: 10.1016/j.imj.2025.100216

Authors: Lu Bai, Yuanyuan Li, Yantong Li, Chengping Hu, Bingrong Zhao

Institutions: Central South University, Xiangya Hospital Central South University

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: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,500