Breath Test: Clinical Application of Breath Analysis in Lower Respiratory Tract Infection Diagnosis

Abstract

Breath research shows promise in diagnosing LRTIs with various etiology and is feasible both in children and in adults. In general, combinations of several biomarkers in a VOC profile or E-nose breathprints demonstrate the best sensitivity and specificity. At this moment, breath analysis can be of value as a screening tool. The time is ready for larger scale validation studies, including pediatric patients and using appropriate control groups, to further establish the accuracy of breath analysis in diagnosing etiology of LRTIs, and the potential to replace the current more invasive diagnostic methods.