Comparison of the Results of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Culture and Endotracheal Aspirate Culture in Intubated Critically Ill COVID-19 Patients

Introduction: Secondary pneumonia is frequently seen in COVID-19 cases followed up intubated, and high mortality rates can be observed. Isolation of the agent with bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) culture or endotracheal aspirate (ETA) culture may increase the success of treatment. This study aimed to retrospectively analyze the results of BAL and ETA cultures in intubated COVID-19 cases.

Methods: We routinely apply BAL culture with bronchoscopy or ETA culture within the first 48 hours after intubating. We retrospectively screened cases who underwent BAL and ETA. They were divided into two groups: Group B and E. Evaluated parameters were compared in both groups.

Results: Demographic data and blood test results were similar in both groups. Intensive care unit (ICU) and intubation durations, and culture positivity were statistically significantly higher in Group B. Although not statistically significant, the mortality rate was higher in Group E. The most growth microorganisms were Candida species.

Conclusion: Mortality rates were consistent with the literature. Since the microorganism isolation rate is higher with BAL and antimicrobial treatment is applied more effectively; early deaths were prevented and stay periods were prolonged. In contrast, these durations were shorter in the ETA group due to higher mortality. In intubated COVID-19 cases, a more effective treatment process can be carried out by clearing the airway with fiberoptic bronchoscopy and by specifically planning the treatment according to the BAL culture. This may have a positive effect on prognosis and mortality.