Rapid detection of <i>Legionella pneumophila</i> by flow cytometry

Abstract

Abstract Legionella pneumophila labeled with specific fluorescent antibody was detected in a suspension of organisms by means of flow cytometry. The presence of other microorganisms in the suspension did not interfere with the recognition of Legionella when present at concentrations of 10 4 to 10 5 cells per ml. These data suggest that flow cytometry may be useful for the detection of Legionella in environmental samples.