Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia in children

Previous descriptions of Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia have emphasized a variety of radiographic patterns which most often apply to advanced disease. We reviewed the chest roentgenograms of children taken at or just after the onset of clinical symptoms. Subtle but definite abnormalities of pulmonary vessels, hila, parenchyma, and aeration were observed. Appreciation of these early changes is necessary to initiate prompt treatment. The role of lung biopsy and the histologic features of these patients are also discussed.