What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're HIV-positive or otherwise immunocompromised and experiencing symptoms like cough, shortness of breath, or fever that could point to a lung infection. It helps identify Pneumocystis jirovecii, a fungus that causes a serious type of pneumonia (PCP) in people with weakened immune systems. Your provider may also use it alongside imaging or other findings to confirm what's causing your respiratory symptoms.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account with the copies/mL value explained alongside the reportable range, so you can see whether the organism was detected and at what level. If your result comes back positive, prompt follow-up is important since PCP can become serious quickly, especially with weakened immunity — seek medical care right away if you have worsening breathing symptoms. The full lab report is downloadable anytime from your account, and you can use the trends feature to track any future retests over time.

Who should consider this test?

This test is meant for people with HIV or other conditions that weaken the immune system, such as those on immunosuppressive medications, organ transplant recipients, or people undergoing chemotherapy. It's especially relevant if you're experiencing breathing symptoms or have imaging findings suggestive of a lung infection. Because this fungus can also show up in people without active illness, it's typically used for at-risk individuals with matching symptoms rather than for general screening.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include a persistent dry cough, shortness of breath (especially with activity), fever, chills, and unexplained weight loss or fatigue. These symptoms are most concerning if you have a weakened immune system, such as from HIV, chemotherapy, or long-term steroid use. If you're experiencing severe difficulty breathing, seek medical care immediately rather than waiting for test results.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. Because this test uses a highly sensitive PCR method, the lab takes care to run it accurately, which can affect timing slightly. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are posted to your secure account.

How can I naturally support my immune system?

While this test itself checks for an active fungal infection rather than general immune weakness, supporting your immune system overall can help your body respond better if you are at risk. Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, getting consistent sleep, managing stress, and avoiding smoking all help support immune function. If you have a condition that suppresses your immune system, staying current with any prescribed treatments and regular health monitoring is especially important.

What is Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia and why does it matter?

Pneumocystis jirovecii is a fungus that rarely causes problems in healthy people but can lead to a serious lung infection called PCP in those with weakened immune systems. It matters because PCP can progress quickly and become life-threatening if not identified and addressed promptly. Catching it early through sensitive testing like PCR gives you a better chance at timely, effective management.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means genetic material from the Pneumocystis jirovecii fungus was detected in your sample, at a level reported in copies/mL. Because this test is very sensitive, a positive result can reflect either an active infection or, less commonly, colonization without illness, so it should be considered alongside your symptoms and any imaging findings. If your result is positive and you're having breathing difficulty, seek medical care promptly.

What causes a Pneumocystis jirovecii infection?

This fungus spreads through the air and is very common in the environment, but it typically only causes illness when the immune system can't keep it in check. Conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer treatment, organ transplants, or long-term use of immune-suppressing medications increase your risk. Simply being exposed isn't usually a problem for people with healthy immune systems.

How often should I retest?

Retesting frequency depends on your individual risk factors and whether you're being monitored for changes in immune status or ongoing symptoms. If you previously tested positive and completed treatment, a follow-up test can help confirm the infection has cleared. Use the trends feature in your account to keep track of results over time and identify any patterns.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

PCP Pneumonia PCR Test - Fungal Lung Infection Check

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP) PCR Test

Pneumocystis jirovecii, Quantitative, Real-Time PCR

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

What happens after I get my results?

Who should consider this test?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Find a lab near you

Pneumocystis Pneumonia (PCP) PCR Test

Prescription & all lab fees included

Doctor's guidance included

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say