Legionnaires' Disease: It's Not Over When It's Over

Since legionnaires' disease was first recognized in the late 1970s, detection and treatment have improved dramatically. But what are the long-term health implications for survivors? . . .

Since legionnaires' disease was first recognized in the late 1970s, detection and treatment have improved dramatically. But what are the long-term health implications for survivors? New data suggest that -- long after successful treatment -- many patients have not returned to their previous level of health.

One hundred twenty-two patients (median age, 66) from a 1999 outbreak of legionnaires' disease in the Netherlands were surveyed up to 20 months after diagnosis. Fewer than 10% of patients had major premorbid conditions. Two months after diagnosis, 81%, 75%, and 79% of patients reported fatigue, neurologic symptoms (memory loss and concentration problems), and neuromuscular complaints (muscle and joint aches or muscle weakness), respective…

Reviewing Author

Bradley E. Britigan, MD