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Legionnaires' disease in a patient with polymyositis
The New Zealand Medical Journal
|June 25, 1980
Summary
Legionnaires' disease, a severe pneumonia, can affect immunocompromised patients. This case highlights the importance of considering Legionella pneumophila in New Zealand pneumonia patients, particularly those with risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Immunology
Background:
- Polymyositis is an autoimmune disease causing muscle inflammation.
- Azathioprine is an immunosuppressive medication used to manage polymyositis.
Observation:
- A 29-year-old woman with polymyositis on azathioprine developed pneumonia.
- The patient presented with severe pyrexia (high fever).
Findings:
- Serum antibody titers confirmed Legionnaires' disease.
- Legionella pneumophila infection was diagnosed.
Implications:
- Legionnaires' disease should be considered in New Zealand patients with pneumonia and fever.
- Immunocompromised individuals are at higher risk for severe infections like Legionnaires' disease.
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