Use of echinocandins combined with clindamycin in Pneumocystis pneumonia: a case series of 14 patients.

BACKGROUND

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PcP) is an opportunistic infection for which the standard of care is co-trimoxazole. However, safety concerns and intolerance may compromise its utility.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the safety and efficacy of the combination of echinocandins and clindamycin to treat PcP.

PATIENTS AND

METHODS

We investigated 14 patients treated with a co-trimoxazole-free combined regimen that included echinocandins and clindamycin.

RESULTS

Clinical cure was achieved in 8 out of 14 patients, while 5 had a fatal outcome due to their primary disease; however, only one patient died due to PcP.

CONCLUSIONS

Echinocandin and clindamycin may be a safe and effective alternative treatment for patients who cannot be given co-trimoxazole for PcP.