Legionnaire's disease

Alternative names:

Legionella pneumonia

Treatment:

The goal of treatment is to eliminate the infection with antibiotics. Treatment is started as soon as Legionnaire's disease is suspected, without waiting for confirmation by culture results. Erythromycin is the drug of choice. Rifampin may be added to improve results.

Supportive treatment includes hospitalization for fluid and electrolyte replacement and oxygen administration by mask or by mechanical ventilation, if the respiratory system becomes severely compromised by the infection.

Expectations (prognosis):

The overall death rate for those with pneumonia is about 15%, and the death rate increases in those with underlying diseases.

Complications:

• respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation (use of a respirator)

Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if breathing difficulties develop.