Transmission of Pneumocystis jirovecii from Carriers to Infant
Author Information
Author(s): Laura Rivero, Carmen de la Horra, Marco A. Montes-Cano, Alfonso Rodríguez-Herrera, Nieves Respaldiza, Vicente Friaza, Rubén Morilla, Sonia Gutiérrez, José M. Varela, Francisco J. Medrano, Enrique J. Calderón
Primary Institution: Virgen del Rocío University Hospital, Seville, Spain
Hypothesis
Can Pneumocystis jirovecii be transmitted from immunocompetent carriers to a susceptible infant?
Conclusion
The study provides molecular evidence that Pneumocystis jirovecii can be transmitted from asymptomatic carriers to a susceptible child.
Supporting Evidence
- P. jirovecii DNA was found in oropharyngeal samples from the infant's grandparents but not her parents or brother.
- Genotype 1 was identified in both the infant and her grandparents.
- The infant was treated successfully and discharged after one month.
Takeaway
This study shows that a baby can get a fungus called Pneumocystis from healthy grandparents who carry it without being sick.
Methodology
The study involved genotyping P. jirovecii from samples of the infant and her grandparents using nested PCR.
Limitations
The possibility of environmental transmission cannot be completely ruled out.
Participant Demographics
The infant was a 6-month-old female, and her grandparents had chronic health conditions but were asymptomatic.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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