Legionellosis overview
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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]
Overview
Legionellosis is an infectious disease caused by bacteria belonging to the genus Legionella.[1] Over 90% of legionellosis cases are caused by Legionella pneumophila, a ubiquitous aquatic organism that thrives in warm environments (25 to 45 °C with an optimum around 35 °C).
Historical Perspective
Legionnaires' disease acquired its name in 1976 when an outbreak of pneumonia occurred among people attending a convention of the American Legion in Philadelphia. On January 18, 1977 the causative agent was identified as a previously unknown bacterium, subsequently named Legionella. Outbreaks of Legionnelosis are listed below in chronological order.
Classification
Legionellosis may be classified into three types based upon clinical presentations or affected organ systems: pulmonary infection (Legionnaires' disease), extrapulmonary infection, and Pontiac fever.
Pathophysiology
Legionellosis is acquired by inhalation and micro aspiration of Legionella into the lungs. Possible virulence factors include aerosol stability, ability to grow within macrophages, possession of eukaryotic gene homologues, and surface hydrophobicity.
Causes
Legionella pneumophila is a thin, pleomorphic, flagellated Gram-negative bacterium of the genus Legionella. L. pneumophila is the primary human pathogen in this group and is the causative agent of legionellosis or Legionnaires' disease.
Differentiating Legionellosis from other Diseases
Epidemiology and Demographics
Risk Factors
Natural History, Complications and Prognosis
Diagnosis
History and Symptoms
Physical Examination
Laboratory Findings
Chest X ray
CT
Other Diagnostic Studies
Treatment
Medical Therapy
Primary Prevention
Secondary Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Sources
- CDC Legionellosis [2]
References
- ↑ Ryan KJ, Ray CG (editors) (2004). Sherris Medical Microbiology (4th ed. ed.). McGraw Hill. ISBN 0838585299.