Testing and diagnosis A sample of a patient's lungs is used to diagnose PCP. The sample is often mucus, which is either coughed up by the patient (referred to as sputum) or collected by a process known as bronchoalveolar lavage. A tiny sample of lung tissue (a biopsy) is sometimes utilized to diagnose PCP. The blood may also be tested for PCP antibodies. The only way to be sure that you have not been infected with PCP is to undergo a chest x-ray every six months after leaving the hospital. Treatment There is no cure for PCP. However, many people are able to fight off the infection using drugs alone. In more severe cases, where the patient's lungs are too weak to withstand the infection, mechanical ventilation and other life support measures may be required. Prevention The only way to prevent PCP is by avoiding exposure to PCP bacteria, which are present in dust from soil contaminated with pigeon droppings. People who live with someone who has PCP should take precautions not to spread the infection. The person with PCP should stay in bed and keep their mouth and nose covered to prevent spreading germs through coughs and sneezes. Also, avoid touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and ears. Tell doctors and nurses if you develop symptoms such as fever, coughing, trouble breathing (chest tightness), pain, or swelling in your neck, back, or legs.