A case of Legionella pneumophila pneumonia.

• Author(s): Correia, M ; Dieudonné, V ; Almeida, H ; Bandeira, T ; Lito, L ; Rodrigues, G ; Sequeira, S
• Date: 1995
• Origin: Acta Médica Portuguesa
• Document Type: Journal article
• Language: Portuguese

Description

Legionella pneumophila is an uncommon cause of pneumonia, mainly in children. We present a case with aggressive disease and unfavourable outcome. The diagnosis was established by serum antibody detection and immunofluorescence and culture of a fragment of lung tissue obtained at necropsy. We focus the importance of this aetiology in nosocomial pneumonia and community-acquired pneumonia with an atypical evolution. The need for specific therapy and some preventive measures are also stressed.

Legionella pneumophila is an uncommon cause of pneumonia, mainly in children. We present a case with aggressive disease and unfavourable outcome. The diagnosis was established by serum antibody detection and immunofluorescence and culture of a fragment of lung tissue obtained at necropsy. We focus the importance of this aetiology in nosocomial pneumonia and community-acquired pneumonia with an atypical evolution. The need for specific therapy and some preventive measures are also stressed.