Diagnosis of pulmonary infections in patients with organ transplants using noninvasive diagnostic laboratory tests.

Lower respiratory-tract infection in patients with transplants or other forms of immune compromise is a serious disease with high mortality. Rapid, accurate diagnostic tests are essential for these patients. The required tests include those for Pneumocystis carinii, mycobacteria, fungi, legionella, viruses, and bacteria. Using currently available technology, a combination of new and conventional tests for these various pathogens can provide comprehensive information within the first 24 hours of evaluation. By 48 hours, even results on important viral pathogens (such as cytomegalovirus and influenza virus) should be available. A cost-efficient strategy must be developed between the practitioner and laboratory to maximize an effective diagnostic approach for these patients.