Most upper respiratory tract infections are caused by viruses, where antibiotics have no beneficial effect. Studies from general practice have demonstrated high rates of unnecessary antibiotic prescribing for patients with these types of infections.2
Together with the assessment of signs and symptoms, testing before treatment is an important step in determining the appropriate course of action. While most testing options offer a tradeoff between speed and accuracy, the cobas® Liat®System brings timely and reliable testing where it’s needed most: the point of care.
Primary care accounts for 80–90% of all antibiotic prescriptions in Europe, and most are prescribed for respiratory tract infections.3
However, sometimes they are prescribed for conditions
antibiotics cannot treat.
Of adults seeking treatment for respiratory infections in the US, a study found more than two thirds of antibiotics were most likely prescribed inappropriately.4
Antibiotic treatment is most effective when it's optimized.
A study reports a 45% reduction in antibiotic prescribing in adults using rapid tests rather than signs and symptoms checks.5
Increase diagnostic confidence with the cobas® Liat® System—avoid the need for healthcare professionals to question a result, or for patients to wait for one. Avoid the need to question a result, wait for answers or rely solely on empiric treatment.
There is a need for quick, well-informed treatment decisions at the point of care. On-site rapid antigen tests may be fast, but also have a lower rate of accuracy and require confirmation of negative results. Lab cultures are highly accurate, but have a long turnaround time—from 4 hours to 5 days.
The cobas® Liat® System offers a unique combination of speed, sensitivity and specificity. With a growing number of assays featuring turnaround times of 20 minutes or less, this compact molecular solution supports effective clinical management.
Antimicrobial Stewardship: PCR Solution
The cobas® Liat® PCR System delivers rapid, reliable results when they are needed most. The system enables healthcare professionals to deliver quick, well-informed treatment decisions at the time of the patient visit – including the control of antibiotic prescribing.
