Legionella dumoffii

Legionella dumoffii

File:Legionella dumoffii logo.png

Logo of Legionella dumoffii

Legionella dumoffii is a species of bacteria belonging to the genus Legionella. It is a Gram-negative, aerobic bacterium that is commonly found in freshwater environments. This bacterium is known to cause a type of pneumonia called Legionnaires' disease, which is a severe respiratory illness.

Taxonomy

Legionella dumoffii was first identified and named by McDade et al. in 1983. It is named after Dr. David Dumoff, a microbiologist who made significant contributions to the study of Legionella bacteria. The species name dumoffii is a Latinized form of his last name.

Morphology and Physiology

Legionella dumoffii is a rod-shaped bacterium with a length of approximately 2-3 micrometers. It is a facultative intracellular pathogen, meaning it can survive and replicate inside host cells. This bacterium is motile, possessing a single polar flagellum that enables it to move in liquid environments.

Habitat and Distribution

Legionella dumoffii is commonly found in freshwater environments such as lakes, rivers, and hot springs. It can also be present in man-made water systems, including cooling towers, hot water tanks, and plumbing systems. The bacterium thrives in warm water temperatures between 25-42°C (77-108°F).

Pathogenesis

Legionella dumoffii is one of the causative agents of Legionnaires' disease, a severe form of pneumonia. The bacteria are transmitted to humans through inhalation of contaminated water droplets or aerosols. Once inhaled, the bacteria can infect and replicate within alveolar macrophages, leading to the development of pneumonia.

Clinical Presentation

The symptoms of Legionnaires' disease caused by Legionella dumoffii are similar to those caused by other Legionella species. They typically include high fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, and headaches. In severe cases, the infection can lead to respiratory failure, kidney failure, and even death.

Prevention and Control

Preventing Legionella dumoffii infections requires proper maintenance and disinfection of water systems. Regular cleaning and disinfection of cooling towers, hot water tanks, and plumbing systems can help prevent the growth and spread of the bacteria. Additionally, maintaining appropriate water temperatures and ensuring proper ventilation in enclosed spaces can reduce the risk of Legionella contamination.

See Also

• Legionella pneumophila
• Legionnaires' disease
• Gram-negative bacteria