Pneumocystis Carinii (PC), has been classified as a parasite, but studies  indicate it may be a fungus, because of some certain generic sequences. PC can be found in the air, soil and water. Most people are infected with PC, but it is usually controlled by a healthy immune system, and it may possibly affect only those who’s T-cell count falls less than 200 or 14%, or individuals that have had complications, such as thrush or unexplained lasting fever. PC usually affects the lungs, in rare occasions extrapulmonary sites, like lymph nodes, bone marrow, spleen and liver.

The symptoms are fever, dry nonproductive cough, chest tightness, and difficulty in breathing. Sometimes these unexplained symptoms can be present for 1 week or more, by this time the person should immediately contact their health provider to get specific testing.  Medical tests that are required to diagnosis PCP include: a chest x-ray and a microscopic examination of induced sputum (mucus), this test will be looking for the presence of the pneumocystis carinnii, and it has an 80% accuracy, and/or a broncoscopy.

The treatment for PCP is usually TMP/SMX (Bactrim, Septra), prescribed by the medical provider. If a patient is allergic to sulfa, there are some options to control the infection.

To prevent PCP it is necessary to use prophylaxis. Most medical providers follow the recommendations found on the guidelines by the Department of the U. S. A. Services and Infectious Disease Society of America. A person living with HIV infection should take PCP prophylaxis if the T-cell count is less then 200 or if he/she has had PCP in the past.