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  • Title: Using the microbiology laboratory in the diagnosis of pneumonia.
    Author: Peterson LR, Shanholtzer CJ.
    Journal: Semin Respir Infect; 1988 Jun; 3(2):106-12. PubMed ID: 3041511.
    Abstract:
    Pneumonia/influenza is one of the top ten leading causes of mortality in the United States each year. The identification of the etiologic agent responsible for lower respiratory tract infection plays an important role in the proper management of this clinical problem. The specimens submitted for evaluation are obtained in diverse ways and include expectorated sputum, material from transtracheal and bronchoscopic procedures, pleural fluid and lung aspirates, and biopsy of actual lung tissue. Processing of material can include stained smears, aerobic and anaerobic cultures, and special processing techniques for fungal, viral, Pneumocystis carinii, Legionella, mycobacterial, and mycoplasma identification. Modifications of smear preparation techniques and application of the new DNA probe technology are providing the opportunity for rapid microbiologic testing of clinical specimens with increased sensitivity and specificity, often obviating the need for invasive diagnostic procedures. Laboratory methodology is continually undergoing technological change, and optimal care of the patient with pneumonia requires close cooperation between the attending physician and the clinical laboratory.
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