Pneumocystis

Diagnostic Use

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PJP or PCP) is a potentially life-threatening infection that occurs in immunocompromised individuals.

HIV-infected patients with a low CD4 count are at the highest risk of PCP. Others at substantial risk include hematopoietic cell and solid organ transplant recipients, those with cancer (particularly hematologic malignancies), and those receiving glucocorticoids, chemotherapeutic agents, and other immunosuppressive medications. The incidence of PCP is increasing as the number of people receiving immunosuppressive medications continues to grow.

Department

Microbiology - Virology

Delphic Registration Code

PNEU

Laboratory Handling

Laboratory

Test performed daily on routine weekdays. Out of hours testing only on Microbiologist approval.

Synonyms

P. carinii
PCP (Pneumocystis PCR)
Pneumocystis
Pneumocystis carinii

Turnaround Time

24 hours

Test Code

2613