Legionella infection.
As specialized laboratory tests became more widely available, Legionella species were found to be common causes of nosocomial and community-acquired pneumonia. Patients with chronic lung disease and organ transplants are at greatest risk. Clinical manifestations are non-specific, although fever greater than 39 degrees C and diarrhea are common. Erythromycin remains the antibiotic of choice, although many alternative agents are available. Once cases are discovered, a search for the organism in water distribution systems and respiratory equipment can be fruitful. Disinfection of water distribution systems by superheating and flushing or by hyperchlorination is feasible.
Nguyen
M L
ML
Department of Medicine, Montefiore University Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Yu
V L
VL
D004917:Erythromycin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007875:Legionella / Q000302:isolation & purification; D007877:Legionnaires' Disease / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000517:prevention & control
D004917:Erythromycin