Prophylaxis and treatment of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia
O'Doherty, M.J.; Bateman, N.T.
British Journal of Hospital Medicine 45(5): 277-8 280 283
1991
ISSN/ISBN: 0007-1064 PMID: 1676607 Document Number: 380715
The current state of knowledge concerning Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) is discussed. There has been a sharp rise in incidence with the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) through the USA and Western Europe, where nearly 80% of patients with HIV infection have at least one episode of PCP during their lifetime. Primary prophylaxis is recommended for HIV-infected patients with a CD4 count <200/ micro l and for any patient in CDC category IV who may not have a low CD4 count. Secondary prophylaxis should be given to all patients who have had PCP. Treatment for mild and severe forms of the disease is discussed.