Advances in pathogen detection of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia

<i>Pneumocystis jirovecii</i> pneumonia (PJP) is a life-threatening opportunistic fungal infection in immunocompromised populations. Microscopic identification of <i>P. jirovecii</i> cysts or trophozoites in lower respiratory specimens remains the diagnostic gold standard. However, the limited sensitivity, substantial technical demands and prolonged turnaround time inherent to this method hinder its clinical utility for timely and accurate PJP diagnosis. Alternative diagnostic approaches, including cytology, serology, and nucleic acid amplification tests, have been employed, though each carries distinct advantages and limitations. This review evaluates current <i>P. jirovecii</i> detection techniques to guide clinicians in early PJP identification and diagnosis, ultimately improving patient prognosis and reducing healthcare system burdens.