A systematic review and meta-analysis on diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care C-reactive protein devices for acute respiratory tract infections
摘要
Acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) are among the most common reasons for antibiotic prescriptions globally, despite the majority being viral and self-limiting. Because clinical signs alone are often insufficient, there is a clear need for rapid diagnostic methods to support evidence-based prescribing. We assessed the effectiveness of point-of-care C-reactive protein (POCT-CRP) testing devices for distinguishing between bacterial and viral ARTIs. Our search of five databases produced 413 studies, of which 29 met criteria, and six were included in the meta-analysis. The devices with adequate performance data were QuikRead CRP, NycoCard Reader II, and FebriDx®. Overall pooled sensitivity 70% (95% CI 52–83%) and specificity 86% (95% CI 80–91%). The FebriDx showed a pooled sensitivity of 84% (95% CI 76–90%) and specificity of 87% (95% CI 82–91%). The QuikRead showed a pooled sensitivity of 35% (95% CI 30–40%) and specificity of 86% (95% CI 82–89%). The NycoCard Reader II showed a pooled sensitivity of 54% (95% CI 21–83%) and specificity of 86% (95% CI 59–96%). Although POCT-CRP testing is useful in distinguishing between bacterial and viral ARTIs and is critical for antibiotic prescription, further evidence, including cost-effectiveness analysis, is needed to determine whether the implementation of POCT-CRP improves value or merely raises healthcare expenses.