A diagnostic rule for the aetiology of lower respiratory tract infections as guidance for antimicrobial treatment.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The majority of patients with lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are treated with antibiotics; some of them are unnecessary because of a viral cause. Information on prediction of the aetiology, especially in a general practice setting, is missing.

Aim

To differentiate between viral and bacterial LRTI on simple clinical criteria, easily obtained at the bedside.

Design of study

Prospective observational study.

Setting

General practices in the Leiden region of The Netherlands.

Method

Adult patients with LRTI were included. Standard medical history and physical examination were performed. Sputum, blood and throat swabs were collected for diagnostic tests. According to microbiological findings, patients were classified as bacterial, viral,

SUBMITTER: Graffelman AW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC1314773 | biostudies-literature | 2004 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature