This randomized controlled trial assessed the safety and effectiveness of multiplex real-time PCR plus conventional microbiological testing compared to conventional testing alone in reducing antibiotic use for community-acquired pneumonia (CAP). 242 hospitalized adults with CAP were randomized. The primary endpoint (days of antibiotic therapy) showed no significant difference between groups (p=0.093). No differences were found in adverse events or 30-day mortality. The study concludes that routine implementation of multiplex real-time PCR for initial CAP testing isn't supported.
