Next-generation sequencing of cell-free microbial DNA in blood samples of critically ill children: a single-center experience

Key Points

• This research aims to evaluate the diagnostic potential of cell-free microbial DNA through next-generation sequencing in critically ill pediatric patients.
• Conducted a single-center study using blood samples from critically ill children
• Employed next-generation sequencing to analyze cell-free DNA for microbial detection
• Assessed the clinical outcomes related to suspected infections
• Found promising results in detecting pathogenic microorganisms
• Highlighted limitations including high costs and issues with diagnostic validity
• Identified data protection constraints affecting raw sequencing data availability

Abstract