Legionella as a Cause of CAP

Legionella species were the causative organisms in 3.8% of patients with community-acquired pneumonia in Germany.

Although Legionella species are known to cause community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), debate continues regarding the incidence and presentation of such illness. Now, researchers in Germany have used the Competence Network for Community Acquired Pneumonia database to analyze the incidence, initial antibiotic therapy, and outcome of legionellosis in that country.

Among 2503 patients treated for CAP at any of 10 clinical centers between June 2002 and April 2005, 94 (4%) were diagnosed with legionellosis. Diagnosis was based on PCR of respiratory samples (52 patients), urinary-antigen tests (48 patients), and selective Legionella culture (3 patients). All cases were sporadic, and no seasonal or geographic variation was noted. The 29 patients who re…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Legionella as a Cause of CAP

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Reviewing Author