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J P Ghanassia1, M F Avril1, F Vezinet2
1Clinique des Maladies Infectieuses A (Pr. J. Modai). Hôpital Claude Bernard - 10, Avenue de la Porte d'Aubervilliers - 75019 Paris - France.
Abstract:
A prospective survey was undertaken in patients hospitalized from january 1976 to april 1978 with clinical, biological and radiological features of atypical pneumonia.In all patients samples were taken early and 15 days after the on set of the disease to detect specific serum antibodies to influenza A and B viruses, parainfluenza type I, II and III, adenoviruses, respiratory syncitial virus, Micoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia psittaci. A fourfold rise in antibodies was observed in 23,7 % of patients (M. pneumoniae 43 %, influenza A virus 28,5 % and C. psittaci 14 %). Taking into account titers equal or higher than 1/64, a specific agent can be recognized in 50 % of 59 cases.Because of those poor results, the delay to obtain them and their cost, the interest of such a laboratory study is questionable.
Insights
Diagnosing atypical pneumonia through antibody testing proved challenging, with low detection rates for specific pathogens like Mycoplasma pneumoniae and Chlamydia psittaci. The study questions the clinical utility of these extensive laboratory tests due to poor results, delays, and costs.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Microbiology
- Immunology
Context:
- Atypical pneumonia presents diagnostic challenges.
- Early 1970s prospective study of hospitalized patients.
- Focus on identifying specific etiological agents.
Purpose:
- To assess the diagnostic yield of serological antibody detection for atypical pneumonia.
- To identify common viral and bacterial causes of atypical pneumonia in hospitalized patients.
Summary:
- Prospective survey of hospitalized patients with atypical pneumonia (1976-1978).
- Serological testing for antibodies against influenza A/B, parainfluenza, adenoviruses, RSV, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, and Chlamydia psittaci.
- A fourfold antibody rise detected in 23.7% of patients; specific agents identified in 50% of cases using high titers.
- Mycoplasma pneumoniae (43%), Influenza A (28.5%), and Chlamydia psittaci (14%) were most frequently identified.
Impact:
- Highlights limitations of serological testing for rapid atypical pneumonia diagnosis.
- Questions the cost-effectiveness and timeliness of extensive antibody testing for atypical pneumonia.
- Suggests a need for more efficient diagnostic methods for atypical pneumonia.