Comparative Evaluation of Molecular vs. Conventional Techniques in the Diagnosis of Bloodstream Infections

Authors: Abdulaziz A. Alhour, Abdulsalam K. Alanazi, Mazen S. Alzahrani, Barrak A. Alawad, Souad M. Alenazi, Amer A. Al Shehri, Mohammed A. Alanazi, Talal M. Hijazi, Najla F. Alshammari

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14382127

Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8vbft

Country: Saudi Arabia

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Abstract: Background: Bloodstream infections (BSIs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality, requiring prompt and accurate diagnosis for effective management. This study compared the performance of molecular diagnostic methods with conventional blood culture techniques in detecting BSIs in a tertiary hospital setting.

Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over 12 months. Blood samples from 500 patients with suspected BSIs were analyzed using conventional blood culture and molecular diagnostics (FilmArray Blood Culture Identification Panel). Key parameters, including sensitivity, specificity, time to detection, and therapy modification rates, were evaluated.

Results: Molecular diagnostics demonstrated higher sensitivity (95% vs. 85%) and comparable specificity (92% vs. 90%) compared to conventional methods. The median time to detection was significantly reduced (2–6 hours vs. 24–72 hours), leading to higher therapy modification rates (85% vs. 60%). Molecular diagnostics also identified pathogens missed by conventional methods, particularly fastidious organisms like *Candida spp.* and *Pseudomonas aeruginosa*.

Conclusion: Molecular diagnostic methods significantly improved the speed and accuracy of BSI detection, influencing timely therapy modifications and enhancing patient outcomes. However, high costs and lack of antimicrobial susceptibility profiling remain challenges to widespread adoption.

Keywords: Bloodstream Infections, Molecular Diagnostics, Blood Culture, Sensitivity, Specificity, Pathogen Detection, Antimicrobial Stewardship.

Paper Id: 231811

Published On: 2024-05-07

Published In: Volume 12, Issue 3, May-June 2024

Cite This: Comparative Evaluation of Molecular vs. Conventional Techniques in the Diagnosis of Bloodstream Infections - Abdulaziz A. Alhour, Abdulsalam K. Alanazi, Mazen S. Alzahrani, Barrak A. Alawad, Souad M. Alenazi, Amer A. Al Shehri, Mohammed A. Alanazi, Talal M. Hijazi, Najla F. Alshammari - IJIRMPS Volume 12, Issue 3, May-June 2024. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.14382127

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