Concordance between a new molecular real-time approach and traditional culture in suspected VAP patients

Early microbiological documentation may reduce attributable mortality and excessive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics in ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Using bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and endotracheal aspirates (ETA), we studied a new molecular biology-based approach to detect and quantify bacteria in less than 3 hours. This prospective multicenter trial aimed at comparing the microbiological results obtained using this molecular protocol (easyMAG® system) and semiquantitative culture in suspected VAP.