AbstractBackgroundMetagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) of plasma cell-free DNA has emerged as an attractive diagnostic modality allowing broad-range pathogen detection, noninvasive sampling, and earlier diagnosis. However, little is known about its real-world clinical impact as used in routine practice.MethodsWe performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients for whom plasma mNGS (Karius test) was performed for all indications at 5 U.S. institutions over 1.5 years. Comprehensive chart review was performed, and standardized assessment of clinical impact of the mNGS based on the treating team’s interpretation of Karius results and patient management was established.ResultsA total of 82 Karius tests were evaluated, from 39 (47.6%) adults and 43 (52.4%) children and a total of 53 (64.6%) immunocompromised patients. Karius positivity rate was 50/82 (61.0%), with 24 (48.0%) showing two or more organisms (range, 2-8). The Karius test results led to positive impact in 6 (7.3%), negative impact in 3 (3.7%), no impact in 70 (85.4%), and was indeterminate in 3 (3.7%). Cases with positive Karius result and clinical impact involved bacteria and/or fungi but not DNA viruses or parasites. In 10 patients who underwent 16 additional repeated tests, only one was associated with clinical impact.ConclusionsThe real-world impact of the Karius test as currently used in routine clinical practice is limited. Further studies are needed to identify high-yield patient populations, define the complementary role of mNGS to conventional microbiological methods, and how best to integrate mNGS into current testing algorithms.SummaryIn a multicenter retrospective cohort study, we show that the real-world clinical impact of plasma metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) for the noninvasive diagnosis of infections is limited (positive impact 7.3%). Further studies are needed to optimize the impact of mNGS.
Clinical Impact of Prescribed Doses of Nutrients for Patients Exclusively Receiving Parenteral Nutrition in Japanese Hospitals: A Retrospective Cohort Study
