Swab, Aspirate, or Biopsy? A Retrospective Comparison of Microbial Yield and Concordance in Suspected Pyogenic Infections

Tissue biopsies demonstrate the highest diagnostic yield for pyogenic infections, reinforcing their role as the gold standard. Pus aspirates offer a reliable alternative for less invasive sampling, while swabs are limited by their high false negative rates and inability to differentiate between colonizers and pathogens. In conclusion, employing appropriate sampling techniques based on the infection site can significantly enhance diagnostic precision and optimize patient care in emergency settings.