A case of Legionnaires' disease accompanied by the development of the adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is reported. From the findings of this case and a review of the literature on Legionnaires' disease, two main conclusions emerge: (1) ARDS may be more frequently associated with Legionnaires' disease than is currently appreciated; (2) it is critically important to recognize the development of ARDS during progressive infection if optimal patient management is to be achieved.
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