Evaluation of Respiratory Specimens for Bacterial and Viral Pathogens by Real-Time PCR

Excess patient specimens normally collected for routine microbiologic testing for CAP and in some cases additional specimens (i.e.,blood, urine, throat swab) will be evaluated using real-time PCR tests developed in our laboratory. Specimens will be performed on patients suspect for CAP. Test will be directed at variety of pathogens including but not limited to M.pneumoniae, C. pneumoniae, Legionella pneumophila, Streptococcus pneumoniae, B. pertussis, influenza viruses, adenovirus, and metapneumovirus. The ultimate goal is to have a panel of highly accurate and rapid (same day) tests that can be orderable and performed in short period time for CAP cases.

Real-Time PCR tests, using the LightCycler instrument, will be performed on excess or additional specimens after extraction of nucleic acid. Real-time PCR tests, using the LightCycler instrument, will be performed on excess or additional specimens after extraction nucleic acid. These tests will include the organisms listed above. As nucleic acid extracts will be archived, other pathogens can be tested in the future should we develop additional real-time PCR tests. All results obtained by real-time PCR will be compared to results for conventional testing as listed above. Sensitivity, specificity and predictive values will be calculated. In cases where discordant results occur, additional PCR testing and or medical history review will be conducted.

Greater than 18 years of age. Cough present greater than one day and a history of fever and chills or documented fever in the Emergency Department