Standardization for diagnostic purposes of a monoclonal antibody against Legionella pneumophila.

A monoclonal antibody against Legionella pneumophila has been produced and characterized. The antibody was of the gamma-3 isotype and recognised the lipopolysaccharides of the bacteria as was confirmed by Western blotting. Preliminary assays were performed for the detection of the antigen in clinical samples in order to set up a rapid laboratory technique for the early diagnosis of legionellosis. By using an immuno-enzymatic technique, less than 30 000 bacteria or corresponding antigens could be detected in a few hours.