The role of biomarkers in respiratory infections

Respiratory infections are among the most common conditions in medicine. Distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections is often difficult and can lead to the prescription of antibiotics that are frequently unnecessary. Biomarkers offer assistance in initiating appropriate treatment. In addition to the already established biomarkers CRP and procalcitonin, this study provides insights into the role of lipocalin 2 as a diagnostic marker, particularly in pneumonia and in exacerbations of COPD, to distinguish between bacterial and viral aetiology and also to indicate the course of an infection.