Multiplex PCR has emerged as a valuable tool in the therapeutic management of severe bacterial pneumonia, offering rapid and accurate pathogen identification and resistance gene detection. Two FDA-approved and CE-marked tests, Unyvero HPN and FilmArray Pneumonia+ Panel, are used to identify pathogens and resistance mechanisms from respiratory specimens. These tests show strong correlation with reference methods but require proper understanding of their indications, targets, and limitations. Collaboration with microbiologists is essential for their appropriate use. These tests can improve the speed, precision, and use of narrow-spectrum antibiotics in the management of severe pneumonia. However, further randomized controlled trials are needed to address unanswered questions about their role in diagnosis and treatment. The Unyvero HPN detects 21 bacteria and one parasite, while the FilmArray Pneumonia+ Panel detects 18 bacteria and eight viruses. Both tests have high diagnostic performance, with the FilmArray Pneumonia+ Panel showing higher sensitivity and specificity in bacterial identification. However, they may miss certain pathogens and have limitations in detecting resistance mechanisms. The turnaround time for these tests is influenced by laboratory organization and equipment availability. Clinical studies have shown that mPCR can impact antibiotic prescribing, enabling de-escalation and early discontinuation of inappropriate antibiotics. However, the results must be interpreted in the context of clinical probability and resistance patterns. The use of mPCR requires training and collaboration with microbiologists to ensure appropriate interpretation. Several trials have demonstrated the potential of mPCR to improve antimicrobial use and patient outcomes, but challenges remain in terms of clinical applicability and interpretation. The impact of mPCR on patient outcomes is still uncertain, and further research is needed to optimize its use. The integration of mPCR into routine practice requires careful consideration of its limitations and the need for appropriate training and collaboration. Overall, mPCR is a promising tool in the management of severe bacterial pneumonia, but its effective use depends on proper implementation and interpretation.Multiplex PCR has emerged as a valuable tool in the therapeutic management of severe bacterial pneumonia, offering rapid and accurate pathogen identification and resistance gene detection. Two FDA-approved and CE-marked tests, Unyvero HPN and FilmArray Pneumonia+ Panel, are used to identify pathogens and resistance mechanisms from respiratory specimens. These tests show strong correlation with reference methods but require proper understanding of their indications, targets, and limitations. Collaboration with microbiologists is essential for their appropriate use. These tests can improve the speed, precision, and use of narrow-spectrum antibiotics in the management of severe pneumonia. However, further randomized controlled trials are needed to address unanswered questions about their role in diagnosis and treatment. The Unyvero HPN detects 21 bacteria and one parasite, while the FilmArray Pneumonia+ Panel detects 18 bacteria and eight viruses. Both tests have high diagnostic performance, with the FilmArray Pneumonia+ Panel showing higher sensitivity and specificity in bacterial identification. However, they may miss certain pathogens and have limitations in detecting resistance mechanisms. The turnaround time for these tests is influenced by laboratory organization and equipment availability. Clinical studies have shown that mPCR can impact antibiotic prescribing, enabling de-escalation and early discontinuation of inappropriate antibiotics. However, the results must be interpreted in the context of clinical probability and resistance patterns. The use of mPCR requires training and collaboration with microbiologists to ensure appropriate interpretation. Several trials have demonstrated the potential of mPCR to improve antimicrobial use and patient outcomes, but challenges remain in terms of clinical applicability and interpretation. The impact of mPCR on patient outcomes is still uncertain, and further research is needed to optimize its use. The integration of mPCR into routine practice requires careful consideration of its limitations and the need for appropriate training and collaboration. Overall, mPCR is a promising tool in the management of severe bacterial pneumonia, but its effective use depends on proper implementation and interpretation.