Definition: An infection of the lungs caused by Pneumocystis carinii, which is thought to be a protozoa but may be more closely related to a fungus. P. carinii grows rapidly in the lungs of persons with AIDS and is a frequent AIDS- related cause of death. P. carinii infection sometimes may occur elsewhere in the body (skin, eye, spleen, liver, or heart). The standard treatment and prophylaxis for PCP is Bactrim, dapsone, or pentamidine.
Also Known As: PCP
