Targeted next-generation sequencing improves diagnosis and antimicrobial stewardship in Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia
摘要
Chlamydia psittaci pneumonia (CPP) remains underdiagnosed due to nonspecific clinical manifestations. This study assessed the clinical utility of targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) in optimizing CPP diagnosis and antimicrobial stewardship, with a focus on empirical quinolone efficacy.
MethodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study of 35 CPP patients (November 2022-October 2023) diagnosed by tNGS of respiratory specimens (8 sputum/27 bronchoalveolar lavage fluid [BALF]). Data included epidemiological history, laboratory findings, imaging features, therapeutic interventions, and clinical outcomes. Statistical comparisons between severe and non-severe CPP were performed using Student’s t-test and Mann-Whitney U tests.
ResultsMedian diagnostic delay post-admission was 4 days (IQR:3–5). Fever predominated as initial presentation (97.1%), with 45.7% reporting avian contact. Leukocyte counts were normal/mildly elevated,, yet neutrophil ratio (83.86 ± 6.17%) and D-dimer (1.31 ± 0.86 mg/L) were notably increased. All patients showed elevated CRP (175.52 ± 87.62 mg/L) and ESR (70.00 ± 22.62 mm/h). Severe CPP cases (n = 8) exhibited higher CRP (p = 0.041) and procalcitonin (p = 0.013) than non-severe cases. Common comorbidities included hepatic dysfunction (68.6%) and pleural effusion (34.3%). Polymicrobial co-infections occurred more frequently in severe CPP cases than in non-severe cases (OR = 21.07, 95% CI:1.11–402.30). tNGS-guided diagnosis prompted antibiotic adjustment in 60.0% of patients (21/35) to targeted quinolone, tetracycline, or combination therapy. Clinical recovery was achieved in 97.1%, with 2.9% mortality.
ConclusionstNGS enhances early CPP diagnosis and targeted antimicrobial adjustment. Quinolones demonstrate high efficacy as empirical treatment. The strong association between severe CPP and polymicrobial co-infections necessitates comprehensive pathogen screening. Study limitations include a single-center design and a small sample size, warranting validation through prospective multicenter studies.