The Legionella pneumophila bacteria are tagged with a monoclonal antibody treated with a fluorescein dye. After binding to the bacteria the slide is viewed under ultraviolet light, and the bacterial cell walls glow green. The early symptoms of avian influenza are remarkably similar to influenza (the "flu"). CT scan of chest showing consolidation of the left upper lobe (right side of image) from Legionnaire's disease. Chest x-ray showing bilateral lower lobe infiltrates consistent with diagnosis of Legionnaire's disease.
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Legionellosis (Legionnaires' Disease)  Information for adults

Picture of Legionellosis (Legionnaires' Disease): The Legionella pneumophila bacteria are tagged with a monoclonal antibody treated with a fluorescein dye. After binding to the bacteria the slide is viewed under ultraviolet light, and the bacterial cell walls glow green. Divider line
The Legionella pneumophila bacteria are tagged with a monoclonal antibody treated with a fluorescein dye. After binding to the bacteria the slide is viewed under ultraviolet light, and the bacterial cell walls glow green.
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Who's At Risk
Anyone who is exposed to L. pneumophila is at risk for developing legionellosis. However, healthy children and adults rarely develop a symptomatic infection. People at specific risk include:
  • The elderly
  • The immunocompromised
  • People who are ventilated (on a breathing machine)
  • People with lung diseases such as emphysema or COPD
  • People who smoke
Healthy people usually recover quickly from legionellosis with appropriate treatment; it may fatal 30% of the time, however, and those who die usually have some of the risk factors listed above.
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Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
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