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[Methods and problems of Legionella diagnosis]
1Abteilung für Medizinische Mikrobiologie, Universität München.
Immunitat Und Infektion
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Identifying Legionellae species is challenging due to similarities. Chemical analysis and complementary diagnostic methods aid in accurate Legionellosis diagnosis and classification of new isolates.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Analytical Chemistry
Context:
- Legionellae identification is complex due to 33 species and 50 serotypes.
- Phenotypic, biochemical, and immunologic similarities hinder accurate species classification.
- Current microbiological diagnostics for Legionellosis are multifaceted.
Purpose:
- To explore methods for improved Legionellae species classification.
- To address the challenges in microbiological diagnostics of Legionellosis.
Summary:
- Chemical analysis of structural features like isoprenoidquinones, fatty acids, and membrane proteins can aid in classifying new Legionellae isolates.
- Ubiquinone determination offers a simple analytical procedure.
- Complementary diagnostic approaches including culture, direct immunofluorescence, and urine antigen detection are recommended.
- Nucleic acid probes show promise but are not yet widely applicable.
- Serological assays remain valuable, especially for non-pneumophila Legionellosis, requiring confirmation with immunoblotting.
Impact:
- Facilitates more accurate species classification of Legionellae.
- Enhances the diagnostic capabilities for Legionellosis.
- Provides a foundation for developing more precise diagnostic tools.