Pediatric Legionnaires' disease: A case report and a review of the literature.
Valeria Garbo, Laura Venuti, Giuseppe Natoli et al.
✦ AI-curated · Sources linked
Case in brief
A 15-month-old girl, previously healthy, developed severe Legionnaires' disease after short-term corticosteroid therapy. The infection was likely acquired in a healthcare setting despite standard water safety measures. Diagnosis was confirmed through PCR and culture, and she received targeted antibiotic therapy, which contributed to her recovery. This case highlights the importance of early identification and treatment of Legionnaires' disease in pediatric patients.
What made this case unusual
The case emphasizes the occurrence of Legionnaires' disease in a previously healthy child following corticosteroid therapy, which is not commonly reported.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
Clinicians should consider Legionnaires' disease in pediatric patients, especially those with recent corticosteroid use and potential healthcare exposure.
Why it matters
The high incidence of healthcare-associated Legionnaires' disease underscores the need for improved infection control measures in pediatric settings.