Clinical prevalence of legionella, associated risk & clinical features

Abstract

Background & objectives: Legionella pneumophila and other members of this genus are important respiratory pathogens but legionellosis often remains a neglected and under reported condition. Hence, this study was done to find out the presence of this organism in patients suffering with lower respiratory tract infection. Methods: A total of 2000 lower respiratory tract samples (sputum, BAL, Pleural fluid) were examined. Culture was done on buffered charcoal yeast extract agar with supplements and identification of the isolates was done by microscopy and biochemical tests. Results: L.pneumophila could be isolated from 32 (1.6%) patients suffering from lower respiratory tract infection, unassociated with other aetiological agents of bacterial pneumonia. associated risk factors co morbid illness also observed and Legionella can be effectively treated with macrolids. Interpretation & conclusion: Our study has shown that Legionella was the aetiological agent of lower respiratory tract infection in 1.6 per cent of patients. Co morbid illness and other clinical findings used to diagnose this disease. A larger study and reports from other parts of the country may help in determining the true significance of legionellosis in India.