Abstract
BACKGROUND: Viruses are key agents causing respiratory illnesses, creating significant public health challenges worldwide. Timely identification of the responsible pathogen is crucial for effective patient management. Conventional virus detection methods in laboratories are often laborious and time-consuming, prompting the need for more efficient diagnostic techniques. The multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method, capable of testing multiple pathogens simultaneously, offers a promising solution. OBJECTIVE: This study investigates the efficacy of multiplex PCR, specifically using the BioFire FilmArray Respiratory Panel (RP2.1), in diagnosing viral respiratory infections and its impact on patient outcomes. METHODS: A retrospective study was conducted at the Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rishikesh, from January 2022 to December 2023, involving 36 patients with upper respiratory tract infection symptoms. Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs were collected and tested using the BioFire FilmArray RP2.1, targeting 17 viruses and four bacteria. RESULTS: Among the 36 samples, 21 (58.33%) exhibited viral agents, with human rhinovirus/enterovirus being the most prevalent (19.44%). Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2), and influenza B were commonly identified. The study found a single viral etiology in 17 samples (47.22%), dual infections in two samples (5.56%), and triple infections in two samples (5.56%). Patient outcomes varied, with seven recorded deaths, mainly among ICU patients. SARS-CoV-2 was a prominent cause of mortality. Most patients with viral respiratory illnesses were from the pediatric (27.78%) and elderly (19.44%) age groups. CONCLUSION: The BioFire FilmArray RP2.1 is a valuable tool for rapid and accurate diagnosis of respiratory infections, facilitating timely and appropriate medical interventions. Despite its higher cost, its efficiency in diagnosis and potential to reduce unnecessary treatments highlight its cost-effectiveness in clinical settings.