Procalcitonin-guided antibiotic prescription in patients with respiratory syncytial virus and influenza virus.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Bacterial co-infections may occur in patients with influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), often leading to high unnecessary antibiotic exposure. Procalcitonin (PCT) may help reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions in viral infections.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, data was analysed from 558 influenza A/B and 175 RSV patients (2017-2024). Patients were divided into PCT (antibiotic prescription guided by PCT levels) and control groups (antibiotic prescription based on clinical judgement). Outcomes included antibiotic use, defined daily dose (DDD), duration of antibiotic treatment (DOT) and secondary outcomes (readmissions, ICU admissions, mortality, mechanical ventilation).

Results

At admission, 139 (49.6%) of influenza patients

SUBMITTER: Hessels L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12699590 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature