Rapid Diagnosis of Pathogenic Legionella Species

Oxoid has launched Xpect™ Legionella, a rapid immunochromatographic test for the direct detection of Legionella pneumophila serogroups 1 and 6 antigen in human urine samples.

Pneumonia caused by Legionella pneumophila (Legionnaires’ Disease) was first recognised in 1977 after an outbreak among attendees at the 1976 American Legion convention. Since then infection by Legionella spp. has been found to be an important cause of community-acquired and nosocomial pneumonia.

The number of cases of Legionnaires’ Disease reported by the European Working Group for Legionella Infections has increased in recent years. In 2007, 946 cases were reported, compared to 360 in 2000. In the UK, figures have more than doubled with 236 cases reported in 2007, compared to 107 in 2000.

Due to the epidemic potential and high case fatality rate of Legionnaires’ Disease, surveillance is important to detect, control and prevent further outbreaks. The use of Xpect Legionella allows early diagnosis and rapid initiation of antibiotic therapy. Xpect Legionella demonstrates excellent sensitivity and specificity, can be stored at room temperature, and is easy to use and interpret. A positive test is indicated by two black lines; one in the Test region and one in the Control region. A negative test is indicated by only one black line in the Control region.