Artificial intelligence in infectious diseases

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have the potential to improve infectious disease management from the research laboratory to the bedside of infected patients. In clinical microbiology, ML can improve the detection, identification, and quantification of microorganisms, as well as assess antimicrobial susceptibility and resistance. AI can support clinical decision-making in the diagnosis and management of infections, including the prediction of response to antimicrobial therapy and the optimization of empirical treatment. However, challenges remain, including the lack of standardized data and large, openly available databases, and the unequal spreading of ML initiatives across healthcare settings. Robust clinical trials are necessary to evaluate AI’s potential application.