The Value of the Syndromic Approach
The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the value of syndromic testing. This diagnostic approach combines a broad grouping of probable targets into one quick test, maximizing the chance of getting an answer in a clinically relevant timeframe.
In light of the pandemic, patients with respiratory symptoms are naturally concerned about COVID-19. But what if their COVID test is negative? Several respiratory pathogens can cause nearly indistinguishable symptoms. Testing with the multiplex PCR BioFire RP2.1 Panel provides answers on 22 possible pathogens—including SARS-CoV-2—with results in about 45 minutes.
Similarly, the BioFire® Respiratory 2.1-EZ (RP2.1-EZ) Panel (EUA)* enables easy in-clinic syndromic testing of those suspected of COVID-19, identifying 19 possible pathogens in about 45 minutes.
Syndromic testing with the multiplex PCR BioFire Respiratory Panels offers several potential benefits. Fast, comprehensive results can give clinicians the information they need to make informed and timely treatment decisions, as well as patient management decisions regarding admission, isolation, cohorting, and additional testing. The early diagnosis of influenza, for example, may reduce the inappropriate use of antibiotics while enabling patients to quickly begin antiviral therapy.
Additionally, multiplex PCR tests can help detect co-infections. One study found that up to 20% of COVID-19 patients had co-infections with another respiratory virus.7 The BioFire Respiratory Panels provide fast answers on a comprehensive menu of respiratory pathogens, taking the guesswork out of choosing which pathogens to test for and increasing the chances of identifying cases of co-infections.