ESCMID Global 2026: Faster Diagnostics at What Cost?

This year’s congress spotlights innovation and growing gaps in patient care

By
Jessica Allerton
April 30, 2026
4 min

The Pathologist

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At ESCMID Global 2026, a key focus was on the advancements in diagnostics and the challenges they present. While the demand for rapid tests is increasing, experts like Heiman Wertheim emphasized the importance of balancing speed with quality. The conference highlighted persistent issues in neonatal sepsis and antimicrobial resistance (AMR), stressing that rapid diagnostics must align with clinical pathways for effective outcomes. Innovations such as AI in microbiology and new diagnostic technologies offer hope, but integration into routine practices remains a hurdle for improving patient care.