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Laboratory tests used to guide antimicrobial therapy.
1Division of Infectious Diseases and Internal Medicine, Rochester, MN 55905.
Mayo Clinic Proceedings
|September 1, 1991
Summary
Laboratory tests guide antimicrobial therapy by assessing bacterial susceptibility and drug levels. Accurate susceptibility testing is crucial for detecting resistant strains and optimizing treatment, especially for critical infections.
Area of Science:
- Clinical Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Laboratory tests are essential for guiding effective antimicrobial therapy.
- Key tests include antimicrobial susceptibility, beta-lactamase detection, and drug level assays.
- Standardized methods are critical for reliable test results.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review laboratory tests used in guiding antimicrobial therapy.
- To emphasize the importance of standardized methods for susceptibility testing.
- To highlight the need for specialized tests for detecting antimicrobial resistance.
Main Methods:
- Review of established laboratory testing methodologies for antimicrobial therapy.
- Discussion of standardized protocols from the National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards.
- Identification of specific methods for detecting resistant bacterial strains.
Main Results:
- Antimicrobial susceptibility testing on significant isolates using standardized methods is recommended.
- Selective reporting of results can promote the use of cost-effective agents.
- Specialized methods are necessary for detecting resistance in key pathogens like MRSA and VRE.
- Accurate measurement of drug levels ensures therapeutic efficacy and prevents toxicity.
Conclusions:
- Standardized susceptibility testing is vital for effective antimicrobial treatment.
- Detecting specific antimicrobial resistance mechanisms is a priority.
- Therapeutic drug monitoring is important for optimizing patient outcomes and safety.