Legionella pneumophila pneumonia successfully treated with intravenous ciprofloxacin

Abstract

A 69-year-old man developed a cough and fever during treatment with corticosteroid (P.O and external use) for erythroderma. Chest X-ray films revealed a consolidation shadow in the right upper lung field. Initial treatment with sulbactam sodium/ampicillin followed by imipenem/ cilastatin was not effective. A urinary antigen test for Legionella was positive, making for a diagnosis of Legionella pneumonia. Intravenous treatment with ciprofloxacin (CPFX) was remarkably effective. His symptoms, chest X-ray and laboratory data rapidly improved after its initiation. Our findings strongly suggest that intravenous treatment with fluoroquinolones including CPFX should also be a first choice for Legionella pneumonia in Japan.