Strengths and limitations of molecular diagnostics for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia

Introduction: While Pneumocystis pneumonia (PcP) remains a major AIDS-defining disease, the majority of cases of PcP now present in the HIV-negative cohort, causing significant mortality. PcP PCR diagnosis is not novel, and the optimal route of diagnosis remains unclear, with an imperfect reference method and complexity in result interpretation for alternative tests.

Areas covered: This extensive review utilizing a literature search underpinning a recent systematic review/meta-analysis discusses the technical and clinical performance of PcP PCR, the added benefits of PCR testing, future aspects/considerations, and how PCR may be best used in clinical algorithms to provide a probability of PcP.

Expert opinion: Given the current imperfect reference test for PcP, an alternative would be beneficial. Concerns over PcP PCR generating false positive results are valid but can be resolved by using positivity thresholds that drive specificity. Unfortunately, the extensive range of PCR assays complicates the provision of a PCR reference method. Combination testing incorporating PCR and B-D-Glucan, along with clinical and host risk factors, is key to understanding the individual probability of PcP. It is critical that access to PcP PCR testing is improved through technical and logistical development. Conversely, syndromic approaches including PcP need to be fully evaluated.