Multiplexed PCR Diagnosis of Bacterial Atypical Pneumonias in the After COVID Era

Atypical Pneumonia (AP) is any type of pneumonia not caused by one of the common microorganisms, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae. The most common etiologic microorganisms are intracellular bacteria and viruses, including Chlamydia pneumoniae and Mycoplasma pneumoniae. These microorganisms have been difficult to culture. The pandemic of COVID-19 has changed the management of these APs as a result of the widespread usage of multiplexed PCR tests. We have audited 7 anonymized cases of AP to illustrate the utility of these multiplexed PCR-based tests, which can aid the diagnosis and prompt treatment of several AP cases. In conclusion, AP can be readily diagnosed with a multiplexed PCR test, so that efficacious treatment can be initiated without delay. Chlamydia and Bordetella diseases are readily diagnosed even with NPS specimens. Macrolides and doxycycline are readily available oral medications for treating AP in children. Doxycycline is efficacious for macrolide-resistant mycoplasma disease and does not have the side effects of tetracycline in the young pediatric population.