Multiplex Tests for Respiratory Tract Infections: The Direct Utility of the FilmArray Respiratory Panel in Emergency...

Area of Science:

• Clinical microbiology
• Infectious diseases
• Diagnostic technology

Background:

• The FilmArray Respiratory Panel is a multiplex assay for detecting respiratory pathogens.
• Previous studies validated its performance in specialized settings.
• Evaluation in real-world, non-specialized point-of-care settings is needed.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the FilmArray Respiratory Panel's performance in a point-of-care, emergency department setting.
• To assess the impact of FilmArray results on clinical decision-making, specifically antimicrobial prescribing.

Main Methods:

• Emergency department visitors with respiratory tract infections were enrolled.
• Specimen collection and FilmArray testing were performed by clinicians at the point of care.
• Clinical data, including antimicrobial prescriptions, were collected and analyzed.

Main Results:

• 196 out of 270 patients (72.6%) tested positive for one or more respiratory pathogens.
• Influenza A virus was the most frequently detected single pathogen.
• Coinfections were observed, with rhinovirus/enterovirus and Bordetella pertussis being common.
• FilmArray results influenced antimicrobial and anti-influenza prescription rates.

Conclusions:

• The FilmArray Respiratory Panel was successfully implemented by clinical staff in an emergency department in China.
• The panel demonstrates potential for effective point-of-care testing in diverse clinical settings.
• This diagnostic approach can aid in optimizing antimicrobial stewardship.