D105-15 Pneumocystis Jirovecii Respiratory Infection in Pediatric Oncology Patients: A Case Series From Homi (2023-2024)
Abstract
Pneumocystis jirovecii is a fungal pathogen that causes respiratory infections, particularly in immunocompromised individuals such as children with oncologic diseases. Early recognition is critical, as the clinical and radiological presentation may mimic other causes of pneumonia. Diagnostic confirmation requires visualization of the microorganism by microscopy or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) samples. Treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole is highly effective. This study aimed to describe the clinical, radiological, and laboratory characteristics of pediatric oncology patients diagnosed with P. jirovecii respiratory infection.
We conducted a descriptive case series including 11 pediatric oncology patients admitted to HOMI (Hospital de la Misericordia, Bogotá, Colombia) between 2023 and 2024, in whom P. jirovecii infection was detected by PCR in BAL fluid. Demographic data, clinical presentation, oxygenation parameters, laboratory values, imaging findings, and outcomes were collected and analyzed.
The mean age was 10 years (standard deviation [SD] 4.5), and six patients (54.5%) were male. Seven (63.6%) had acute lymphoblastic leukemia, and two (18.2%) were hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients. The mean minimum oxygen saturation was 85.5% (SD 5.2%). Eight patients (72.7%) required admission to the pediatric intensive care unit, with four (46.4%) requiring invasive mechanical ventilation and seven (63.6%) high-flow nasal…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case series, done in people. Its evidence level is 5 of 5 (Very low · case / narrative / animal / in vitro / in silico). Case reports, narrative reviews, and animal, cell or computer-model studies give the weakest evidence for human health. Reported size: 11 participants or records.
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