Legionella pneumophila Antigen, DFA
Use
This direct fluorescent antibody (DFA) assay is used for detection of Legionella pneumophila antigen in respiratory or tissue specimens to support diagnosis of Legionnaires’ disease. It provides supportive evidence by direct visualization of antigen in lower respiratory tract specimens or lung tissue, and may detect multiple species and serogroups beyond L. pneumophila serogroup 1. It is technically specialized and complements culture and molecular testing approaches in clinical diagnosis.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
This assay requires high-quality lower respiratory or tissue specimens; slides, serum, urine, environmental samples, or specimens in viral transport medium are rejected. Sensitivity may vary by specimen type. It does not assess antibiotic susceptibility, and DFA is technically difficult, with limited reagent availability, so results may be supportive but not definitive in isolation.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Direct Fluorescence Antibody Stain)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue
Volume
1 gm (1 gm minimum) fresh (unfixed) lung or other respiratory tissue
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
sterile, leak‑proof container
Collection Instructions
Lung Tissue: Place into sterile container with a small amount of sterile, non‑bacteriostatic, distilled water. Do not add saline; may be inhibitory.
Causes for Rejection
Slides; serum; urine; expired transport device; environmental sources; specimens received in viral transport media
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant