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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Purification of Pathogen Vacuoles from Legionella-infected Phagocytes
Published on: June 19, 2012
Legionella pericarditis diagnosed by direct fluorescent antibody staining
J A Puleo1, F A Matar, P P McKeown
1Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa 33606, USA.
Legionella pericarditis, a severe Legionnaire's disease complication, was diagnosed using direct fluorescent antibody staining on pericardial tissue. Video-assisted thoracoscopy proved safe and effective for diagnosis and management of this rare condition.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Legionnaire's disease is a severe pneumonia caused by Legionella bacteria.
- Legionella pericarditis is an uncommon but serious complication, affecting the sac around the heart.
- Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial for favorable outcomes.
Observation:
- A case of Legionella pericarditis is presented.
- Diagnosis was achieved through direct fluorescent antibody staining of a pericardial tissue sample.
- Video-assisted thoracoscopy was employed for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
Findings:
- Direct fluorescent antibody staining of pericardial tissue confirmed Legionella infection.
- Video-assisted thoracoscopy facilitated safe and effective diagnosis and management.
- This approach highlights a viable strategy for a rare clinical presentation.
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering Legionella in pericarditis, especially in endemic areas or specific risk groups.
- Direct fluorescent antibody staining on pericardial tissue is a valuable diagnostic tool.
- Video-assisted thoracoscopy offers a minimally invasive option for managing complex cases of Legionella pericarditis.
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