Respiratory Pathogen Detection in Children: Saliva as a Diagnostic Specimen
Emma M. de Koff, Sjoerd M. Euser, Paul Badoux, Judith Sluiter-Post, Dirk Eggink, Elisabeth A. M. Sanders, Marlies A. van Houten
Abstract
We compared pathogen detection between saliva, nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal swabs in children with respiratory symptoms. The sensitivity in nasopharyngeal swabs was 93% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 78%-98%), in oropharyngeal swabs 79% (95% CI: 60%-90%), in saliva overall 76% (95% CI: 58%-88%) and in 18 saliva samples collected with drooling or sponges, 94% (95% CI: 74%-99%). Saliva could be a relevant specimen alternative.
Topics & Concepts
SalivaDroolingMedicineConfidence intervalPathogenInternal medicineRespiratory systemGastroenterologyImmunologyDentistryRespiratory viral infections researchPneumonia and Respiratory InfectionsCystic Fibrosis Research Advances