Rapid detection of Legionella antigen in tissues and body fluids

We report on a study in which a modification of the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using solid-phase microtiter plates has been applied to detect Legionella pneumophila (serogroup 1) antigen in urine, secretions and tissue homogenates. The radioimmunoassay (RIA) and ELISA techniques were compared with respect to sensitivity and range of detection of individual species' antigens. We present results of adsorption studies in which positive specimens were treated with specific IgG fractions raised in the rabbit against individual Legionella species. The advantage of the rapid ELISA or RIA diagnosis over the more time-consuming diagnostic measures is discussed.