Polymerase chain reaction blood tests for the diagnosis of invasive aspergillosis in immunocompromised patients

Abstract

This is the protocol for a review and there is no abstract. The objectives are as follows: To provide an overall summary of the diagnostic accuracy of PCR-based tests on blood specimens for the diagnosis of IA in the immunocompromised host. When studies included in the analysis also compare the diagnostic performance of PCR techniques and the GM-ELISAassay, we will comparatively evaluate the diagnostic performance of PCR-based tests and GM-ELISA assays. However, since is not an objective of this review to identify all the studies dealing with GM-ELISA assays and IA, only within-study comparisons will be included in the review. If sufficient data are available, we will explore possible sources of heterogeneity and subgroup differences.