Final answer:
Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a type of pneumonia caused by the fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii, occurring primarily in immunocompromised patients like those with HIV/AIDS. Diagnosis involves examination of lung samples, and treatment typically includes the trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole combination drug.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pneumocystis Pneumonia in Immunocompromised Patients
Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP) is a type of lung infection that occurs in immunocompromised patients, particularly those with weakened immune systems such as individuals with HIV/AIDS. The causative agent of PCP is the fungus Pneumocystis jirovecii, which was previously thought to be a protozoan and named P. carinii. In healthy people, the fungus can exist without causing symptoms, but in those with compromised immune systems, it can lead to severe pneumonia, characterized by fever, cough, and shortness of breath. Diagnosis can be achieved through microscopic examination of lung samples or PCR testing. The standard treatment involves the use of the combination drug trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP/SMZ), which, despite potential side effects, is crucial as untreated PCP can be fatal.