What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to highlight the challenge of diagnosing Legionnaires’ disease and the benefits of rapid molecular testing.

February 12, 2026Open Access

From Bronchopneumonia to Sepsis: “ An Unexpected Diagnosis of Legionnaires’ Disease" A rare case report

Key Points

The aim is to highlight the challenge of diagnosing Legionnaires’ disease and the benefits of rapid molecular testing.
Case report of a 45-year-old female with pneumonia and sepsis.
Utilization of BioFire® Pneumonia Panel for rapid diagnosis.
Sample collection using mini-BAL (mini-bronchoalveolar lavage).
BioFire testing confirmed the presence of L. pneumophila.
Early diagnosis facilitated targeted therapy.
Timely detection is linked to improved patient outcomes.

Abstract

Diagnosing fastidious organisms like Legionella pneumophila is difficult in peripheral laboratories due to the unavailability of specialized media such as BCYE agar and the delayed results of serological tests, which are mainly epidemiological. Rapid multiplex PCR platforms, such as the BioFire® Pneumonia Panel, enable timely detection of rare pathogens including L. pneumophila. A 45-year-old female with fever, chest pain, breathlessness, and productive cough was admitted with pneumonia and sepsis. BioFire testing of a mini-BAL sample confirmed L. pneumophila. Early molecular diagnosis ensures targeted therapy, improves outcomes, and supports antimicrobial stewardship.

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