The diagnostic value of metagenomic next-generation sequencing versus traditional microbiological testing in native pyogenic spinal infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis
mNGS outperforms conventional culture in sensitivity, speed, and breadth of pathogen detection in native PSIs and supports more tailored antimicrobial therapy. However, careful interpretation is necessary due to potential false positives. These findings support the integration of mNGS into clinical workflows, particularly in complex or culture-negative infections.
Authors
- SHREYASKUMAR R. PATEL (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-0026-2348)
- Othman Ibrahim (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9910-0962)
- Khaled Aboushaala (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4134-1464)
- Sarah E. Sansom (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1924-8941)
- Lena Al‐Harthi (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3915-3904)
- Gregory D. Lopez
- Kern Singh
- Brett Williams
- Sloane O. Ward
- Andrew Savoia (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0004-2366-7999)
- Rewa Aboushaala
Institutions
- Rush University Medical Center (US)
Publication Details
- Journal
- North American Spine Society Journal (NASSJ)
- Published
- 2025-12-20
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1016/j.xnsj.2025.100840
- Primary Topic
- Infectious Diseases and Tuberculosis
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00