Pneumocystis
Pneumocystis
Pneumocystis (pronounced: new-mo-sis-tis) is a genus of single-celled fungi found in the lungs of many mammals, including humans. The term is derived from the Greek words "pneuma" meaning "breath" or "wind" and "kystis" meaning "bladder" or "cyst".
History
The genus Pneumocystis was first described in the early 20th century by scientists who observed its presence in the lungs of many mammals. The most well-known species, Pneumocystis jirovecii, was identified in humans in the mid-20th century and is known to cause a form of pneumonia, Pneumocystis pneumonia, particularly in individuals with weakened immune systems.
Characteristics
Pneumocystis organisms are small, single-celled fungi that reside in the lungs. They are not easily cultured in the laboratory, which has made them difficult to study. However, they are known to reproduce via both sexual and asexual means, and their life cycle involves the production of cysts, which can be inhaled by a new host.
Medical Significance
In humans, Pneumocystis can cause a form of pneumonia known as Pneumocystis pneumonia. This condition is particularly common in individuals with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, those undergoing chemotherapy, or those taking immunosuppressive drugs. Pneumocystis pneumonia can be life-threatening if not treated promptly with appropriate antifungal medications.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pneumocystis
- Wikipedia's article - Pneumocystis
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