title: Diagnostic testing for ventilator-associated pneumonia.
abstract: This article discusses the interpretation of the diagnostic tests in the management of ventilated patients with suspicion of pneumonia. The specific steps for diagnostic evaluation are identified. An accurate interpretation of the significance of the bacterial burden requires previous evaluation of the sample quality, knowledge of administration of new antibiotics within the prior 48 hours, and evaluation of presence of comorbidities. Finally, the article presents a review of the current debate of impact on outcome.
authors.affiliation: Pulmonary Department, Hospital de Sabadell, Barcelona, Spain.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Gallego
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Rello
mesh_terms: D001419:Bacteria / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D001999:Bronchoscopy / Q000379:methods; D003955:Diagnostic Tests, Routine / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008403:Mass Screening / Q000379:methods; D018410:Pneumonia, Bacterial / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology*; D011379:Prognosis; D012121:Respiration, Artificial / Q000009:adverse effects*; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity