Legionellosis

Introduction. 

Legionella are common aquatic bacteria which can cause opportunistic infections in humans. Their name derives from a 1976 outbreak at an American Legion convention that killed many attendees.  Legionella causes mild (Pontiac fever) and severe (Legionnaire's disease) infections.

Summary

• Cause: Legionella pneumophila
• Microscopy: Gram-negative rods; pleomorphic in culture
• Symptoms: fever, chills, myalgia, headache.
• Transmission: Inhalation from contaminated water source
• Complications: Legionnaire's disease (Fever, chills, cough, headache, multiorgan disease, pneumonia)
• Pathogenesis: Intracellular replication
• Treatment: Azithromycin, ciprofloxacin

References/Links

1. http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca/education/images/bio/gallery/bac_legionella.jpg