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Subcutaneous Emphysema: A Case Report Of An Atypical Manifestation Of Pcp In An Hiv Patient, Drew Kotler, Md, Drew Johnson, Md

The Medicine Forum

Introduction:

Pneumocystis pneumonia (PCP), caused by Pneumocystis jirovecii (P. jirovecii), is a fungal opportunistic infection seen in poorly controlled Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and is considered an Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) defining illness. It is also found in other immunocompromised states, such as hyper IgM syndrome and in patients on immunosuppressive therapy. In the HIV+ population, a CD4+ T-lymphocyte count (CD4 count) less than 200 cells/mm3 is associated with an increased risk of PCP. Combination antiretroviral therapy in conjunction with PCP prophylaxis has significantly decreased the prevalence of this opportunistic infection. In the United States HIV-infected population, PCP prevalence …