Legionella pneumonia complicated by rhabdomyolysis

Abstract

Legionnaires’ disease is a recognised but rare cause of rhabdomyolysis. It can be further complicated with renal impairment. In this case report, we describe a previously healthy, semiactive 50-year-old man who within days was reduced to having periods of dyspnea after minutes of walking in addition to near fatal acute renal failure. He was found to have the rare triad of Legionella pneumonia, renal failure and rhabdomyolysis, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality. He was treated according to guidelines with azithromycin monotherapy and aggressive fluid hydration. 20 days after admission, the patient was walking independently and discharged home.