Mixed lung infection by Legionella pneumophila and Legionella gormanii detected by fluorescent in situ hybridization

Abstract

A mixed infection by Legionella pneumophila and a nonpneumophila Legionella species was detected in a lung biopsy specimen obtained from a patient with atypical pneumonia by fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH). This result was confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Sequencing of PCR products confirmed mixed infection by L. pneumophila and L. gormanii. Culture for Legionella spp. was negative and serology showed a rise only in IgG anti- Legionella pneumophila titer. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a mixed infection by L. pneumophila and a non-pneumophila Legionella species detected by FISH. Because FISH is a rapid and culture independent method that detects specific microorganisms in biopsy specimens it is recommended, in particular, for the detection of fastidious bacteria.