Fatal Legionella longbeachae infection following heart transplantation.

A case of fatal Legionella longbeachae infection following heart transplantation is described. Gram stains of respiratory secretions on day 17 posttransplant revealed leucocytes and gram-negative bacilli, but there was no growth on routine bacterial culture. Legionella longbeachae serogroup 1 was isolated from respiratory specimens, blood, and postmortem lung tissue. Legionella longbeachae is a common cause of legionellosis in Australia, and infection has been associated with exposure to potting mixes. Specific culture for Legionella spp. should be performed for any patient who develops pneumonia following organ transplantation.