BioFire FilmArray Pneumonia Panel enhances detection of pathogens and antimicrobial resistance in lower respiratory tract specimens

BACKGROUND: This study investigated the diagnostic utility of the BioFire FilmArray Pneumonia Panel (PN panel), an automated and multiplexed nucleic acid detection system that rapidly detects 26 pathogens (18 bacteria and eight viruses) and seven antimicrobial resistance markers in a single assay. METHODS: We analyzed the targets in lower respiratory tract specimens using the PN panel and compared the detection results with those of bacterial culture methods and antimicrobial susceptibility testing. RESULTS: ≤ copies/mL) among bacteria that were negative by the culture method. CONCLUSIONS: The PN panel enhanced the detection of pathogens and antimicrobial resistance markers in lower respiratory tract specimens.