AN inexpensive blood test could one day tell doctors whether an infection is caused by a virus or a bacteria, and prevent unwarranted prescribing of antibiotics, researchers said last Wednesday (6).
The diagnostic test, described in the peer-reviewed journal Science Translational Medicine, is being developed by the Stanford University School of Medicine in California.
The new test, which is not yet on the market, works by identifying seven human genes whose activity changes during an infection. That pattern of activity can reveal whether an infection is bacterial or viral.
“Many diagnostics focus on trying to find bacteria in the bloodstream, but most infected people don’t have bloodstream infections, meaning such tests aren’t helpful,” said lead author Timothy Sweeney, an engineering research associate with the Stanford Institute for Immunity, Transplantation and Infection.
“In contrast, our test can detect an infection anywhere in the body by ‘reading the immune system,’” he added.
If further tests show that it works and is cost-effective, the test could be a useful tool in preventing the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacterial pathogens.
Vogue 1940; Designer Elsa Schiaparelli wearing black silk dress with crocheted collar of her own design and a turbanFredrich Baker/Condé Nast via Getty Images
'Tears' Evening dress and head veil, designed by Elsa Schiaparelli, February 1938 for Circus Collection, summer 1938. Fabric designed by Salvador Dali Victoria and Albert Museum, London
Natasha Poonawalla attends The 2022 Met GalaGetty Images 
Vogue 1936; Two models, standing in a white room with arrows painted on walls and wearing dresses by Schiaparelli;Cecil Beaton/Condé Nast via Getty Images
Many of these beaches are tidal and best enjoyed at low tideiStock
It’s also unofficially clothing-optionaliStock
Framed by the turquoise seaiStock
It’s best visited early or late in the dayiStock