Pneumocystis Jirovecii Pneumonia

This study is a prospective randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low-dose versus standard-dose trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX) for the prevention of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PJP) in kidney transplant recipients. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either low-dose or standard-dose TMP-SMX for 12 months after kidney transplantation. The primary outcome is the incidence of PJP during the prophylaxis period. Secondary outcomes include adverse events related to TMP-SMX, dose reduction or discontinuation rates, incidence and timing of PJP after discontinuation, and other post-transplant complications. Participants will be followed for a total of 24 months, including a 12-month prophylaxis period and an additional 12-month follow-up period after discontinuation. This study aims to provide evidence for optimizing prophylactic strategies against PJP in kidney transplant recipients.

The usual first treatment for Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) is an antibiotic called trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX). However, some patients cannot take this medication because of allergies, side effects, or lack of response. This study asks the question: When TMP-SMX cannot be used, which alternative treatment for PCP provides the best balance of effectiveness and safety?