Table 3 Diagnostic tests and their utility in the well‐appearing febrile young infant. Data from references [22, 25, 49, 50]
From: Facing the ongoing challenge of the febrile young infant
Test | Indications | Potential role in management |
|---|---|---|
RSV testing | Infants with respiratory symptoms | If positive, may safely avoid LPs, antibiotic exposure, and hospitalizations |
EV testing | Infants undergoing LP and CSF studies | If positive, may consider discontinuing antibiotics, discharge home if bacterial cultures negative at 24–36 h |
Influenza testing | Infants with respiratory symptoms, especially during high regional prevalence | If positive, may consider discontinuing antibiotics, discharge home if bacterial cultures negative at 24–36 h |
Procalcitonin | Otherwise low‐risk infants with negative virological testing | If normal/minimal elevation: may consider initial inpatient observation off antibiotics, avoidance of LP, or outpatient management |