Protochlamydia naegleriophila as Etiologic Agent of Pneumonia

摘要

Using ameba coculture, we grew a Naegleria endo-symbiont. Phenotypic, genetic, and phylogenetic analyses supported its affi liation as Protochlamydia naegleriophila sp. nov. We then developed a specifi c diagnostic PCR for Protochlamydia spp. When applied to bronchoalveolar la-vages, results of this PCR were positive for 1 patient with pneumonia. Further studies are needed to assess the role of Protochlamydia spp. in pneumonia