Authors' objectives: This report aims to summarise the available evidence on the NOW(R) S. pneumoniae test.

Authors' recommendations: Streptococcus pneumoniae is a leading cause of bacterial pneumonia; however it is not the only cause. Determination of the pathogen responsible for pneumonia allows for the correct choice of treatment. This is particularly important with the rising incidence of antibiotic resistance. The NOW(R) test allows accurate diagnosis from a urine sample in approximately 15 minutes. The test is performed by dipping a swab into the urine specimen and inserting the specimen into the testing device. The presence of S. pneumoniae antigen in the urine is detected within 15 minutes. Cost is about 30 USD per test. In a study of 373 patients known to have Streptococcus pneumonia, the test was 83% accurate. When 213 patients with pneumonia symptoms of unknown cause were tested, the urine test was 78% accurate. False positives occur if the test is administered within five days of vaccination for pneumonia. The FDA advises physicians to confirm the test with conventional laboratory tests.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

Year Published: 2000

URL for published report: https://www.ihe.ca/advanced-search?type=1020

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Institute of Health Economics

Contact Address: 1200, 10405 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, T5J 3N4. Tel: +1 780 448 4881; Fax: +1 780 448 0018;

Contact Name: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Contact Email: djuzwishin@ihe.ca

Copyright: Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research (AHFMR)