TB Research

Point-Counterpoint: Should Serum β- <scp>d</scp> -Glucan Testing Be Used for the Diagnosis of Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia?

Gabriela Corsi-Vasquez, Luis Ostrosky‐Zeichner, Edward F. Pilkington, Paul E. Sax

Journal of Clinical Microbiology · 2019-08

Abstract

using special stains or molecular assays, which require highly trained staff that may not be available with a rapid turnaround time. Given the invasive nature of collecting BAL specimens and the expertise needed for interpreting PJP test results, there is interest in using serum 1,3-β-d-glucan (BDG) testing for the diagnosis of PJP. In this point-counterpoint, Luis Ostrosky-Zeichner and Gabriela Corsi-Vasquez discuss the pro view of using BDG testing for the diagnosis of PJP, while Paul E. Sax and Edward F. Pilkington III present the con view of using BDG testing for the diagnosis of PJP.

MeSH terms

  • Sputum
  • Pneumocystis jirovecii
  • Pneumocystis carinii
  • Bronchoalveolar lavage
  • Pneumonia
  • Medicine
  • Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
  • Counterpoint
  • Intensive care medicine
  • Internal medicine