Rapid DNA test may unmask pneumonia in hours, not days
NCT ID NCT05952648
First seen Sep 02, 2026 · Last updated Sep 03, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This trial tests whether a rapid genetic test, called multiplex PCR, can identify the cause of pneumonia in critically ill patients faster than standard lab cultures. The study enrolls adults in the ICU with suspected hospital-acquired or ventilator-associated pneumonia. Researchers compare how often a microbiological diagnosis is made within 24 hours using the rapid test versus conventional methods, and whether this leads to earlier, more targeted antibiotic use.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Multiplex PCR assay (FilmArray Pneumonia Panel Plus) compared with standard culture
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could help doctors identify the cause of pneumonia in critically ill patients within hours, allowing them to switch from broad-spectrum to targeted antibiotics more quickly.
- What could go wrong
- The trial is relatively small and early, and the PCR test may not always match culture results. There is also a risk that faster diagnosis may not translate into better patient outcomes.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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About 126 people
The number the study aims to enrol. It can still change while the study runs.
- Started
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Apr 2024
- Expected to finish
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Dec 2026
An estimate. End dates often move.
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * Suspicion of HAP/VAP (clinical/radiological/laboratory criteria); * Availability to perform tracheal aspirates or broncoalveolar lavage within 1 hour from clinical suspicion * Life expectancy ≥ 48 hours * Signed written informed consent. Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy, * Concomitant participating in other interventional trial * Refusal to sign informed consent
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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Fondazione Policlinico Universitario "A. GEMELLI" IRCCS
Roma, 00168, Italy
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Modena Policlinico
Modena, Italy
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Ospedale Careggi
Florence, Italy
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S. Orsola Research Hospital
Bologna, Italy
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