Diagnosis of<i>Pneumocystis carinii</i>Pneumonitis by Means of Endobronchial Brush Biopsy

Abstract

PATIENTS with primary or iatrogenic immune deficiency states can have a clinical syndrome characterized by diffuse or patchy pneumonitis, nonproductive cough, fever, tachypnea and hypoxemia. Pneumocystis carinii is a cause of this syndrome but is difficult to diagnose since the organism cannot be cultured and is only rarely found in tracheal secretions.1 Percutaneous needle biopsy, aspiration needle biopsy, and open lung biopsy can demonstrate the organisms but carry a definite morbidity and mortality.2 Endobronchial brush biopsy by the method of Fennessey is a safe and well tolerated procedure even in very ill patients.3 , 4 The brush can easily obtain alveolar material . . .