An infection of the lungs that occurs in a person whose mechanisms to fight infection are significantly impaired.

Alternative Names

Pneumonia in immunodeficient patient

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

Because defense mechanisms are limited in immunocompromised patients (people with a defective immune response ), they are susceptible to infections by microorganisms that are present everywhere, but do not cause disease in healthy people. They are also more susceptible to the usual causes of pneumonia , which can affect anyone. Causes of immunosuppression include HIV infection , leukemia , organ transplantation, bone marrow transplant, and medications to treat cancer .

Signs and tests

Crackles or other abnormal breath sounds may be heard when listening to the chest with stethoscope ( auscultation ). Lack of breath sounds can be an important sign. Tests include:

Treatment

The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection with antimicrobial therapy (antibiotics or antifungal agents, usually). The specific agent used will depend on the sensitivity of the organism causing the problem as determined by a culture or special stains. Respiratory treatments to remove secretions and oxygen therapy are often indicated.

Expectations (prognosis)

The outcome may be poor if the pneumonia is caused by a virus or fungus, or if the patient is severely immunosuppressed .

Complications

Calling your health care provider

Call your health care provider if you are immunosuppressed and symptoms of pneumonia develop.

Prevention

Limit exposure of immunocompromised people to others who are ill.