ASCLS NE Region CE Event

Distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections can be challenging, leading to inappropriate use of antibiotics that may contribute to the development of bacterial antibiotic resistance. In this session we will review recent advances in the development and validation of host-response biomarkers for the diagnosis of bacterial and viral infections. We will then present several case studies in which a new test measuring serum CRP, IP-10 and TRAIL successfully identifies the bacterial or viral etiology of infection.

1. To recognize the challenges for laboratories and clinicians in distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections.

2. To understand the potential impact of host biomarker technology on clinical decision making and antimicrobial stewardship.

3. To gain an understanding of utility and potential limitations of host biomarker analysis in the clinical assessment of patients with possible acute infections.