Legionellosis overview

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Overview

Historical Perspective

Classification

Pathophysiology

Causes

Differentiating Legionellosis from other Diseases

Epidemiology and Demographics

Risk Factors

Natural History, Complications and Prognosis

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History and Symptoms

Physical Examination

Laboratory Findings

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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

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

  1. Ryan KJ, Ray CG (editors) (2004). Sherris Medical Microbiology (4th ed. ed.). McGraw Hill. ISBN 0838585299.