Metagenomic Analysis of Thoracic Empyema Etiology Through Next-Generation Sequencing Enhances Conventional Culture Techniques

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to analyze the microbiome of thoracic empyema using metagenomic methods and compare the results with conventional culture methods to increase diagnostic accuracy and enhance antibiotic therapy. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study involved 30 patients with thoracic empyema from hospitals in Riau Province, Indonesia. Pleural fluid samples were collected for culture analysis and identification using the Vitek 2 compact system and metagenomic analysis. Patient clinical data were also collected. RESULTS: <0.050). CONCLUSION: Metagenomic NGS offers significant advantages in detecting the microbiome of thoracic empyema, particularly fungi and anaerobic bacteria, which are often missed by conventional culture methods. This has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy and optimize antibiotic therapy. Further research with larger sample sizes is needed.