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Answered by Dr. Howard E. LeWine
M.D. Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing · 40 years of experience · USA
Pneumocystis jirovecii is a very common fungus that people with normal immune systems can carry in the lungs without causing any medical problems. However, they can transmit this fungus to others through close air contact. When someone with a compromised immune system is exposed, they can develop pneumonia that causes chest tightness, shortness of breath, dry cough and fever.
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Answered by Dr. Martin Perlin
Doctor of Medicine · 33 years of experience · USA
Shortness of breath and cough which evidence of low oxygen on blood gas analysis and infiltrates seen on radiographic study.
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Answered by Dr. Wesley D Palmer
Doctor of Medicine · 23 years of experience · USA
Pneumocystis pneumonia will present with a decrease in oxygen levels either at rest or with exertions. Symptoms can range from shortness of breath and cough to severe breathing difficulties (respiratory distress).
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Answered by Dr. Marcella Abunahman Pereira
Specialization in Clinical Cardiology · 12 years of experience · Brazil
Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia is a fungal infection of the lungs. It is more frequent in people with weakened immune system due to cancer, long-term use of corticosteroids or other medicines that weaken the immune system, HIV/AIDS and organ or bone marrow transplant. The signs include fever, chills, dry cough or wheezing, shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pain or tightness when you breathe and weight loss.
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