Diseases Common to AIDS

Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP).

Caused by fungus-like single-celled parasite, Pneumocystis carinii, common world-wide. Infects lungs. Previous to AIDS, found in kidney transplant patients whose immune system had been chemically suppressed. Occurs in 60% to 80% of AIDS patients. Initially responsible for 30% to 50% of deaths among AIDS patients, now brought under better control due to chemical prophylaxis, that is, chemically treating the patient before symptoms occur.