Progress of researches on the differential diagnosis of Pneumocystis jiroveci infection and colonization

Pneumocystis jiroveci(PJ) is an atypical conditional pathogenic fungus. PJ colonization is a potential risk factor for Pneumocystis jiroveci pneumonia (PJP). Active identification of PJ colonization or infection is conducive to rational use of antibiotics. Although serum G test combined with molecular detection technology, peripheral blood CD4+ T level and independent characterization of trophozoites and cysts by transcriptome sequencing technology may support identifying PJ colonization and diagnosis of infection, unified standards have not yet been established. Based on the pathogenic characteristics and pathogenic mechanism of PJ,clinical characteristics and diagnostic methods of PJP, this paper reviews the progress of differential diagnosis of PJ infection and colonization, so as to provide more objective and comprehensive differential strategy for clinical diagnosis and treatment.