Severe Legionella pneumophila pneumonia in a patient with iron overload

Scand J Infect Dis. 2002;34(10):772-4. doi: 10.1080/00365540260348608.

Abstract

Iron plays a crucial role in the energy metabolism of microorganisms. Humans have developed iron-withholding mechanisms as a form of non-specific immunity. We describe a patient with iron overload and severe Legionella pneumophila pneumonia. This report emphasizes the importance of early consideration of and appropriate therapy against Legionella for patients with iron overload who present with community-acquired pneumonia.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Disease Progression
  • Drug Therapy, Combination
  • Fatal Outcome
  • Humans
  • Iron Overload / complications*
  • Iron Overload / diagnosis
  • Legionella pneumophila / isolation & purification*
  • Legionnaires' Disease / complications*
  • Legionnaires' Disease / diagnosis*
  • Legionnaires' Disease / therapy
  • Male
  • Multiple Organ Failure / physiopathology
  • Respiration, Artificial
  • Severity of Illness Index

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents