For suspected Legionella infection, send urine for Legionella antigen testing.
Culture of Sputum / BAL for Legionella can be done but has low sensitivity, particularly after antibiotics.
For guidance on hospital management of community acquired pneumonia, see OUH Adult Antimicrobial Guide
Sample type
Antigen testing:
Urine
Culture:
- Sputum
- BAL
- Transbronchial biopsy
- Pleural biopsy
- TBNA
Specimen requirements
Send in a sterile universal container
Minimum volume
0.5ml
Frequency of test
Daily
Turnaround time
Legionella antigen - <24 hours
Legionella culture - 11 days
What to request on EPR
Legionella Ag, urine; Legionella MCS
