Identification

• Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia is a condition that occurs as a result of an infection in the lungs by the pneumocystis carinii fungus. The condition can strike people of any age, but it does not affect healthy adults. It is most commonly found in premature babies, and people who have compromised immune systems. It occurs in people with immune system conditions such as HIV or cancer, and it can also occur as a result of receiving a bone marrow transplant as a treatment for cancers such as leukemia.
  
  

Types

• The symptoms of pneumocystis carinii pneumonia will normally develop slowly over a long period of time in people with HIV, but it can strike quickly in others. The most noticeable symptom is labored breathing. In the initial stages, the person will become short of breath after some sort of physical activity. As the condition progresses, breathing can become shallow and difficult even when there is no physical activity at all. The person may also display very rapid breathing at intermittent times and for no apparent reason. Most people suffering from pneumocystis carinii pneumonia will also show symptoms of a dry but persistent cough.
  
  

Effects

• Other symptoms associated with pneumocystis carinii pneumonia can include a fever that might lead to excessive sweating or chills and a prolonged feeling of fatigue. The person may also start to display a condition known as cyanosis. This is when areas around the mouth, or on the outer extremities such as the fingers and toes, begin to turn a bluish color due to a lack of oxygen. The areas that turn blue may also start to feel cold as well.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• The most common treatment for pneumocystis carinii pneumonia is a regimen of medications known as antimicrobial therapy. These medications are designed to kill the fungal infection in the lungs. They can be given in a pill or liquid form, or they may be given in the hospital intravenously if the condition is severe enough. Corticosteroids are sometimes used to help fight the infection as well.
  
  

Warning

• Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia can be fatal, but if it is detected and treated, it can also be cured. People suffering from HIV may be given a preventive medication called pneumocystis carinii pneumonia prophylaxis because the condition can be prevalent in people with HIV. You should report any of the symptoms of pneumocystis carinii pneumonia to a doctor immediately.