Legionella

Question 1

Classification of Legionella

Answer 1

Gram Negative
Bacilli

Question 2

1.Morphology and Structure:
2.Staining
3.Describe the side chains of this bacteria
4.Compared to other gram negative bacteria, how would you describe the LPS of Legionella ?

Answer 2

1.Gram negative Bacili
2.This bacteria stains poorly or NOT at all !!
3.Side chains are hydrophobic
4.Less toxic than Neisseria and Enterobacteriacea

The reason why LPS is less toxic than other Gram negative is because of

Question 3

Source of Legionella

Answer 3

inhaled from aquatic source
cooling towers
airconditioners

Question 4

Classic sign for Legionella

Answer 4

Destructive pneumonia marked by HEADACHE, fever, chills, DRY COUGH and chest pain

Question 5

Growth and Classification:

How does this bacteria grow or what are the requirements for its growth ?

Answer 5

FAILS to grow on blood agar
requires certain amino acids (L-cystein) FERRIC ions and certain pH

Growth requires low pH and IRON

Question 6

Pathogenesis:

1. which part of our body do Legionella love to attack ?
2. Microscopically, in which part of the lungs does it usually involve ?

Answer 6

1. Lungs
2. alveoli and terminal bronchioles
   3.