Legionnaires disease

Definition

Legionnaires' disease is a severe form of pneumonia caused by the bacterium Legionella pneumophila. It primarily affects the lungs and can be fatal if not treated promptly.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Legionnaires' disease is transmitted through inhalation of aerosolized water containing Legionella bacteria.
2. The bacterium Legionella pneumophila is a Gram-negative proteobacterium commonly found in freshwater environments.
3. Symptoms of Legionnaires' disease include high fever, chills, cough, muscle aches, and headaches.
4. Diagnosis often involves urinary antigen tests and culture techniques to identify the presence of Legionella bacteria.
5. Treatment typically includes antibiotics such as azithromycin or levofloxacin.

Review Questions

Related terms

Legionella pneumophila:

A Gram-negative bacterium that causes Legionnaires' disease.

Pneumonia:

An infection that inflames the air sacs in one or both lungs.

Azithromycin:

An antibiotic commonly used to treat bacterial infections including Legionnaires’ disease.