empiric therapy

Empiric therapy refers to the initial treatment given to a patient based on the most likely cause of their condition, even before specific test results are available. For example, if a patient shows symptoms of a bacterial infection, a doctor might prescribe antibiotics based on common knowledge about which bacteria are likely present. This approach is often necessary when quick action is essential for the patient's health or when waiting for test results would delay important treatment. Once the cause is confirmed, the treatment can be adjusted if needed.