Pneumocystis Carinii Test

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP) is the former name of Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP). It is the most common opportunistic infection which occurs in persons infected with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). P jiroveci is one of several organisms that are known to cause opportunistic infections in HIV infected patients and PJP does not respond to antifungal treatments. Pneumocystis is a form of atypical pneumonia. In patients with early disease who are not visibly immunocompromised, laboratory diagnosis of PCP is critical. In patients with pneumonia and HIV infection, PCP is the primary consideration. P jiroveci cannot be cultured in vitro, thus the laboratory detection involves using a PCR (polymerase chain reaction) assay.

The laboratory diagnosis requires fluid or tissue sample from the lungs. The specimen (sputum) is collected by expectoration (coughing). The doctor will ask you to cough up the sputum. It is best to collect the specimen in the morning, before breakfast, in order to obtain overnight accumulation of secretions. No test preparation is required. There are no dietary restrictions that you have to follow before the test. You can eat and drink normally. In case you wear dentures, you will be required to remove them before collection of specimen.

The PCR assay is 21% more sensitive than other methods (stain methods), specific and can detect Pneumocystis from specimens including bronchoalveolar lavage. PCR detects the presence of fungal pneumonia P jiroveci in the specimen.

The specimen from a respiratory source like sputum has to be collected in a sterile container. About 1ml of the specimen is required. Rinse your mouth with water to reduce specimen contamination. Do not use mouthwash or toothpaste while rinsing. Sit on a chair or on the edge of a bed. Hold your breath for a few seconds and then cough directly into the specimen container. Tightly replace the cap of the container and ensure that it is secure to prevent contamination or leakage. Label the container with required details like patient’s name, doctor’s name, specimen type, date and time collected. The specimen is then sent for further laboratory examination.