Pneumocystis jiroveci infection in patients with hyper-immunoglobulin E syndrome

Pediatrics. 2006 Oct;118(4):e1271-5. doi: 10.1542/peds.2006-0311. Epub 2006 Aug 28.

Abstract

The hyper-immunoglobulin E syndrome is a primary immunodeficiency characterized by recurrent pyogenic skin and lung abscesses, dermatitis, and elevated serum immunoglobulin E levels. Pneumocystis jiroveci (formerly Pneumocystis carinii) is not typically associated with hyper-immunoglobulin E syndrome. We identified 7 patients with hyper-immunoglobulin E syndrome with P. jiroveci detected in respiratory or pulmonary pathology specimens. In 5 patients it was the sole pathogen, and in 2 other patients it contributed to a polymicrobial etiology. No consistent prophylaxis was given, and there have been no recurrences on long-term follow-up. Our experience suggests that P. jiroveci can cause pneumonia in patients with hyper-immunoglobulin E syndrome both with and without chronic lung disease.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Intramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Child
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Job Syndrome / complications*
  • Male
  • Pneumocystis carinii*
  • Pneumonia, Pneumocystis / diagnosis
  • Pneumonia, Pneumocystis / etiology*