[Determination of Legionella antigens using monoclonal antibodies]

The detection of antigens is the most important tool for rapid diagnosis of Legionellosis. 34 Legionella (L.) spp. with 51 serogroups have been identified from several sources. According to the antigenic diversity, it is necessary to select monoclonal antibodies (mab) adequate to diagnostic purposes. Mab with specificity to genus, species and serogroups were discussed. L. pneumophila accounts for 70 to 80% of all cases of Legionelloses. In this study self-made mab to L. pneumophila are presented that demonstrate these bacteria in clinical materials from respiratory tract using immunofluorescent tests and by detection of soluble antigens in pleura fluids and urine specimens using enzyme immunoassay.