Broad-spectrum targeted next-generation sequencing: is it ready for routine deployment in intensive care units for severe pneumonia?
Authors' conclusion
Although tNGS broadens pathogen and resistance detection, its routine implementation in the ICU requires clearly defined indications, validated genotype-phenotype correlations, optimized turnaround time, strict contamination control, and structured multidisciplinary integration.
Study context
- Population
- Adult ICU patients with severe pneumonia at a tertiary medical center in Taiwaninterim analysis
- Participants
- 51 patients
- Comparison
- Hybrid capture-based targeted next-generation sequencing (tNGS) vs standard testing on bronchoalveolar lavage
- Outcome
- Adjudicated causative pathogens (multidisciplinary expert adjudication)
Methodological detailsinterim analysis, single-centre
- Interim analysis
- Single-centre
Performance
As reported in the abstract
P = 1.00
Further findings
Analytical detection rate
Clinically actionable yield of RPIP vs CMT + FAPP after expert adjudication
- Additional clinically actionable yield with RPIP, mainly antimicrobial resistance determinants
- 23.5%
- Concordant results
- 17.6%
- Lower yield with RPIP
- 13.7%
- No adjudicated causative pathogen after comprehensive review
- 45.1%
Original publication
Broad-spectrum targeted next-generation sequencing: is it ready for routine deployment in intensive care units for severe pneumonia? Crit Care. Published 2 April 2026. doi:10.
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