Biofire - Respiratory RP2 Plus Panel

A respiratory tract infection is an infection that can affect the sinuses, throat, airways, or lungs. They can be caused by a variety of viruses and bacteria. These infections range from the common cold and flu to pneumonia and bronchitis. Symptoms may include a cough, sore throat, runny nose, fever, and difficulty breathing.

The Biofire Respiratory RP2 Plus Panel employs a molecular technique known as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) to amplify and detect the genetic material of pathogens. This allows for rapid identification of a wide range of viruses and bacteria that are known causes of respiratory tract infections.

The Biofire Respiratory RP2 Plus Panel can detect over 20 common respiratory pathogens, including viruses like Influenza A, Influenza B, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), and bacteria such as Bordetella pertussis and Chlamydophila pneumoniae.

This panel offers several benefits, including rapid turnaround time, high sensitivity and specificity, and the ability to test for multiple pathogens simultaneously. This can be especially beneficial in guiding targeted treatment, monitoring outbreaks, and managing infection control procedures.

A positive result indicates that genetic material from one or more respiratory pathogens was detected in the sample. This suggests that the symptoms are likely due to a respiratory infection caused by these pathogens.

Yes, the panel can differentiate between viral and bacterial infections. This is vital for guiding appropriate treatment, as antibiotics are not effective against viral infections.

The results of the Biofire Respiratory RP2 Plus Panel will help your doctor to decide on the most effective treatment for your infection. If bacteria are detected, antibiotics may be prescribed. If viruses are detected, antiviral medications or supportive care might be recommended.

If the test results are positive for a contagious respiratory pathogen, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions, which may include taking prescribed medications, resting, and isolating to prevent the spread of the infection to others.

Although highly sensitive and specific, the panel may not detect all pathogens that cause respiratory infections. Additionally, a negative result does not always rule out infection, especially if the sample was collected improperly or too early/late in the course of the infection.

If the test results are abnormal, indicating an infection, it is advisable to consult a general physician or an infectious disease specialist for further evaluation and treatment.

Yes, the test is safe. It involves taking a swab from the nasopharynx, which might cause temporary discomfort but is generally well-tolerated.

The levels of pathogens detected can be affected by the stage of the infection, the presence of other pathogens, and the patient’s immune response.

The Biofire Respiratory RP2 Plus Panel represents a major advancement in the diagnosis of respiratory infections. By enabling swift and accurate detection of a wide array of pathogens, this test is instrumental in ensuring that patients receive the most suitable treatment without delay. Knowing the cause of a respiratory infection is a critical first step towards effective treatment and recovery.