New Guide to Help Physicians Select Most Relevant Diagnostic Tests for Infectious Diseases

Sections of the guide are divided into anatomic systems, including bloodstream infections and infections of the cardiovascular system, central nervous system infections, ocular infections, soft tissue infections of the head and neck, upper respiratory infections, lower respiratory tract infections, infections of the gastrointestinal tract, intra-abdominal infections, bone and joint infections, urinary tract infections, genital infections, and skin and soft tissue infections; or into etiologic agent groups, including tickborne infections, viral syndromes, and blood and tissue parasite infections.

Each section of the guide contains introductory concepts, a summary of key points, and detailed tables that list suspected agents; the most reliable tests to order; the samples (and volumes) to collect in order of preference; specimen transport devices, procedures, times, and temperatures; and detailed notes on specific issues regarding the test methods, such as when tests are likely to require a specialized laboratory or have prolonged turnaround times.

"Getting the right diagnosis is contingent upon laboratory results that are accurate and clinically relevant," said contributing author Dr. Ellen Jo Baron, professor of pathology and laboratory medicine at Stanford University (Palo Alto, CA, USA). "Physicians, their staff and microbiologists must communicate and work together to ensure the best outcome for patients, and this guide aims to help facilitate this collaboration."

The guide was published in the July 10, 2013, online edition of the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases.

Related Links:
Downloadable Guide
Infectious Diseases Society of America
American Society for Microbiology