Utility of multiplex PCR in diagnosis of respiratory tract infections

Acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) are among the most prevalent acute diseases. The development of the multiplex PCR technique facilitates clinical detection of respiratory viruses(RV)s and offers a more useful tool for defining the image. In addition, multiplex PCR facilitates significantly earlier identification than conventional diagnostic methods such as direct fluorescent antibody testing and viral culture. Objective: To evaluate diagnostic efficacies of a multiplex PCR assay with traditional microbiological approaches in a regular care scenario with the help of TRUPCR Nucleic acid extraction kit and Respiratory Pathogen Panel kit. Materials and Methods: A total of 719 samples (throat and nasal swabs) were tested, 495 from males and 224 females were tested using TRUPCR Nucleic acid extraction kit and Respiratory Pathogen Panel kit. Statistical Analysis: The data collected from the medical records, were transferred into separate study proforma. The data was entered into MS-EXCEL for further analysis after editing for completeness and consistency. The analysis was carried out by using statistical package for social analysis (SPSS, 20 th version). P value <0.05 with two-sided was considered as statistically significant. Results: A total of 719 samples (throat and nasal swabs) were tested, 495 from males and 224 females were tested. In total, 130/224 (58%) females were found positive, 265/495 (53.5%) males were positive. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common bacteria followed by Haemophilus influenzae. Among the viruses Influenzae A was common and also had highest number of coinfections with bacteria, followed by Human metapneumo virus. Conclusion: Emphasis should be laid to contain the infection at the earliest by creating awareness and administering vaccination at the right time. There should be an upsurge to embark on molecular diagnosis along with stewardship.