Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 27, 2026
Author Spotlight: Studying Host-Microbe Interactions in Wound Biofilm Formation
Published on: June 16, 2023
Differentiation between infected and non-infected wounds using an electronic nose
M Haalboom1, J W Gerritsen2, J van der Palen3
1Medical School Twente, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands; Department of Vascular Surgery, Medisch Spectrum Twente, Enschede, the Netherlands.
Objectives:
The aim of this study was to explore whether an electronic nose, Aetholab, is able to discriminate between infected versus non-infected wounds, based on headspace analyses from wound swabs.
Methods:
A total of 77 patients participated in this pilot study. Each wound was assessed for infection based on clinical judgment. Additionally, two wound swabs were taken, one for microbiological culture and one for measurement with Aetholab. Diagnostic properties with 95% confidence intervals (95%CIs) of Aetholab were calculated with clinical judgment and microbiological culture results as reference standards.
Results:
With clinical judgment as reference standard, Aetholab had a sensitivity of 91% (95%CI 76-98) and a specificity of 71% (95%CI 55-84). Diagnostic properties were somewhat lower when microbiological culture results were used as reference standard: sensitivity 81% (95%CI 64-91), specificity 63% (95%CI 46-77).
Conclusions:
Aetholab seems a promising diagnostic tool for wound infection given the diagnostic properties presented in this pilot study. A larger study is needed to confirm our results.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Infection
The chain begins with pathogens: bacteria, viruses, fungi, prions, or parasites such as protozoa helminths. These can be present on the skin as transient or resident flora, or they can be acquired from the environment. Identifying and treating the type of infection and...
01:26Stages of Infection
01:26Sexually Transmitted Infections
01:26Defense Mechanism Against Infection
In addition, many body organ systems have unique defenses against infection. The skin is an intact, multilayered surface preventing invasion by microorganisms unless impaired. Mucous membranes lining the mouth, nose, and eyelids are barriers...
01:26Factors Affecting the Risk of Infection
The integrity and count of the white blood cells help the body resist pathogens and fight infection. When impaired, it reduces the body's resistance to pathogens. The acidic pH levels of the gastrointestinal, genitourinary tracts, and skin...
01:22Healthcare Associated Infections II: Preventive Measures
The best practices for preventing healthcare-associated infections include hand hygiene, patient risk...