Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia as the first presentation of HIV infection in patients older than fifty

A significant increase in the number of elderly patients first diagnosed with HIV infection at the time of presentation with an AIDS-related opportunistic infection has recently been reported. This suggests a significant delay in the diagnosis of HIV infection. Few data are available describing such cases and their outcome. We restrospectively reviewed records of all elderly patients (> 50 years of age) admitted to a New York City hospital over a 3-year period with confirmed Pneumocystis carinii pneumonia (PCP). The mean age was 57.9 +/- 6.6 years. In 80% (8 of 10 cases), the diagnosis of HIV infection was made at presentation with PCP. The mean CD4 count was 34.2 +/- 39.2/mm3 (1-117/mm3), indicating advanced AIDS. The clinical presentation of PCP was similar to that in younger patients. With prompt and appropriate therapy, a 70% survival rate for this hospitalization was achieved, similar to that reported in younger age groups. The diagnosis of HIV infection was not considered until presentation with PCP at an advanced stage of AIDS in 80% of these elderly patients, thus delaying institution of HIV treatment and counseling. Early consideration of HIV infection in the elderly is of importance because of the rising number of AIDS cases in this age group.