Case Study 1

A 64-year old male with fever, malaise, and cough.

The patient's disease had been caused by Legionella pneumophila.

Question 6 of 6

Are these organisms primarily human pathogens?

A.

Yes The natural environment of Legionella pneumophila is water. It can also be found in small numbers in the soil. Legionella thrives in warm, stagnant water at temperatures of 25-42° C and reach greater numbers if scale or sediment is present. The presence of amoebae is also important as they are capable of supporting growth of Legionella.