Legionella pneumophila (PCR)

Swab (respiratory), sputum, bronchial lavage

Legionella pneumophila is the causative agent of legionellosis (Legionnaires' disease). The bacterium occurs worldwide in water as an environmental germ.
Transmission often occurs through aerosols of infected water systems (cooling towers, humidification systems, air-conditioning systems, shower heads, etc.) In 10%, clinical manifestation with acute pneumonia, renal insufficiency, relative bradycardia and CNS disorders occurs after an incubation period of 2 - 10 days.
High lethality in L. pneumophila infection occurs in immunocompromised patients or patients with pre-existing cardiac or pulmonary disease.
A much milder form of Legionella pneumophila infection is Pontiac fever, in which the affected person shows only mild, flu-like symptoms.