Legionellosis risk factors

Legionellosis Microchapters
Home
Patient Information
Overview
Historical Perspective
Classification
Pathophysiology
Causes
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
Prevention
Cost-Effectiveness of Therapy
Future or Investigational Therapies
Case Studies
Case #1
Legionellosis risk factors On the Web
Most recent articles
Most cited articles
Review articles
CME Programs
Powerpoint slides
Images
American Roentgen Ray Society Images of Legionellosis risk factors All Images X-rays Echo & Ultrasound CT Images MRI
Ongoing Trials at Clinical Trials.gov
US National Guidelines Clearinghouse
NICE Guidance
FDA on Legionellosis risk factors
CDC on Legionellosis risk factors
Legionellosis risk factors in the news
Blogs on Legionellosis risk factors
Directions to Hospitals Treating Legionellosis
Risk calculators and risk factors for Legionellosis risk factors

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Risk Factors

Most healthy individuals do not become infected with Legionella bacteria after exposure. Major risk factors that predispose to legionellosis include:

• Age (usually 50 years or older)
• Recent travel with an overnight stay outside of the home
• Current or former smokers
• Exposure to whirlpool spas
• Recent repairs or maintenance work on domestic plumbing
• Chronic lung disease (namely COPD or emphysema)
• Weakened immune system from diseases like cancer, diabetes, or kidney failure
• Immunosuppressive drug therapy (post-transplant or chemotherapy)