Sputum Gram's Stain in Community-Acquired Pneumococcal Pneumonia. A Meta-Analysis

摘要: The usefulness of the sputum Gram's stain is controversial. This meta-analysis was designed to evaluate sensitivity and specificity in community-acquired pneumococcal pneumonia. Using a predetermined protocol, articles were discovered through MEDLINE search (1966 1993) examination bibliographies graded for quality by three blinded reviewers. Information on reference standard, blinding, interpreter, control antibiotic use, definition positive test collected. We found 12 containing 17 characteristics evaluate. number patients each study ranged from 16 404. Sputum culture most common standard (10 estimations). Sensitivity 15% 100% 11% 100%. Test varied markedly among studies appeared related partly interpreter. may yield misleading results pneumonia, as its vary substantially different settings. A practitioner electing use should be well trained specific test.