Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia natural history
Introduction
Overview
Overview
Pneumocystis pneumonia can be life threatening, causing respiratory failure that can lead to death. People with this condition need early and effective treatment. For moderate to severe pneumocystis pneumonia in people with AIDS, the short term use of corticosteroids has decreased death.
Complications
Complications
Possible Complications
- Pleural effusion (extremely rare)
- Pneumothorax (collapsed lung)
- Respiratory failure (may require breathing support)
Prognosis
Prognosis
Typically, in untreated PCP increasing pulmonary involvement leads to death.
References
References
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]