Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia Complicated by Pneumomediastinum: A Case Report

Cureus. 2024 Apr 13;16(4):e58189. doi: 10.7759/cureus.58189. eCollection 2024 Apr.

Abstract

Pneumomediastinum refers to the presence of air in the mediastinum (the space in the chest between the lungs). It can arise from various etiologies, including trauma, esophageal perforation, infections, medical procedures, or underlying lung diseases. Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) is a common opportunistic infection seen in immunocompromised individuals, especially those with HIV/AIDS. Pneumomediastinum is a rare but serious complication of PJP that occurs in immunosuppressed patients, leading to significant morbidity and mortality. We present a rare case of pneumomediastinum caused by P. jirovecii pneumonia in an AIDS patient.

Keywords: hiv aids; influenza virus type a; pjp; pneumo mediastinum; trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole.

Publication types

  • Case Reports