Algorithmic overreach: A case series of misinterpretation of polymerase chain reaction guided personalized antibiograms in urinary tract infections

Authors

• Tanner Orfanides, St. John Fisher University
• Julia Kufel, St. John Fisher University
• Lisa M. Avery, St. John Fisher UniversityFollow

Document Type

Poster Presentation

Publication Date

4-17-2026

Keywords

fsc2026

Abstract

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the most common infections worldwide, significantly affecting  patients’ quality of life and imposing clinical and economic burdens. Traditional urine culture remains the diagnostic gold standard but requires 24-72 hours for definitive identification and susceptibility results. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based diagnostics have gained popularity in urgent care (UC) and outpatient settings due to their rapid turnaround. Interpreting urinary PCR results is complex and may be challenging for clinicians.  This has led to the development of algorithm-based computer programs to aid providers and guide antibiotic therapy. Our three-patient case series demonstrates how one such algorithmic program caused confusion and led to unnecessary broad-spectrum antibiotic use and  hospital admissions.

Comments

Poster presented at the 2026 Fisher Showcase, St. John Fisher University, April 17, 2026.

Publication Information

Orfanides, Tanner; Kufel, Julia; and Avery, Lisa M., "Algorithmic overreach: A case series of misinterpretation of polymerase chain reaction guided personalized antibiograms in urinary tract infections" (2026). Fisher Showcase 2026. Paper 55.
https://fisherpub.sjf.edu/fsc2026/55

Please note that the Publication Information provides general citation information and may not be appropriate for your discipline. To receive help in creating a citation based on your discipline, please visit https://libguides.sjf.edu/citations.