Metagenomic next-generation sequencing for the diagnosis of suspected pneumonia in immunocompromised patients

Pneumonia is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in immunocompromised patients, often requiring admission to the intensive care unit (ICU) [1, 2]. Early identification of causative pathogens is essential for administration of appropriate antimicrobial therapy and improved clinical outcome [1-4]. The current strategy of diagnostic techniques for suspected pneumonia requires knowledge of the most likely pathogens. However, this approach may be too cumbersome or even impossible in cases of polymicrobial infections and may not be appropriate for the identification of unexpected pathogens.
Source: Journal of Infection - Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Source Type: research