Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board (PLAB) Practice Exam

Which antibiotic is typically used to treat a confirmed case of Legionella pneumonia?

1. Doxycycline

2. Azithromycin

3. Erythromycin

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

In the treatment of Legionella pneumonia, a confirmed case is often managed with antibiotics that have good activity against the bacteria. Among the choices provided, all of the listed antibiotics—doxycycline, azithromycin, and erythromycin—are indeed effective options for treating Legionella infections. Azithromycin is particularly favored because of its excellent penetration into lung tissue and its efficacy against atypical pathogens, including Legionella. It is often used as the first-line treatment due to its convenient dosing schedule and lower side effect profile. Doxycycline is another effective choice for treating Legionella pneumonia, especially in patients who can tolerate tetracyclines. It, too, has good tissue penetration and covers the microorganism adequately. Erythromycin, although less commonly used nowadays due to more effective alternatives, still remains a valid option for treatment due to its ability to inhibit bacterial protein synthesis. The statement that all three antibiotics can be utilized reflects a comprehensive understanding of the treatment landscape for Legionella pneumonia, affirming that the infection can be successfully treated with any of them based on individual patient circumstances and provider preferences.