A case of Legionella pneumophila pneumonia.

Abstract

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.