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Asthma-Mild Management — SCE Respiratory MCQ

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HardRespiratory MedicineAsthma-Mild ManagementSCE Respiratory

An immunocompromised patient has subacute hypoxaemia, bilateral ground-glass opacities and raised beta-D-glucan. Which investigation best confirms Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia?

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Correct answer: B — Respiratory sampling for Pneumocystis

Respiratory sampling with PCR or organism demonstration confirms PCP; BAL is more sensitive when induced sputum is negative or unobtainable. Beta-D-glucan supports but is not specific. Treatment should not be delayed in severe compatible disease.

Reference: NICE NG250: Pneumonia diagnosis and management. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng250/chapter/recommendations