Antimicrobic susceptibility testing. A personal perspective.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Clinical Diagnostics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Antimicrobic susceptibility testing (AST) is crucial for guiding effective treatment of bacterial infections.
• Historical development of AST has focused on improving accuracy and reproducibility.
• Emerging challenges include the rise of opportunistic pathogens and novel resistance mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the historical development of antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
• To highlight the impact of standardization and organizational advancements on AST performance.
• To address current challenges and the need for updating AST protocols.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical data and procedural developments in AST.
• Analysis of factors contributing to improved AST performance.
• Consideration of technical aspects of automated procedures and specific assays.

Main Results:

• Standardization and organizational efforts have significantly enhanced AST performance.
• Opportunistic pathogens and new resistance mechanisms present ongoing challenges requiring updated methods.
• Automated procedures and specific assays like Minimum Bactericidal Concentration (MBC) and serum bactericidal testing have technical considerations.

Conclusions:

• Continuous refinement of AST methods is essential to combat evolving antimicrobial resistance.
• Standardization remains a cornerstone for reliable susceptibility testing.
• Future efforts must address new pathogens and resistance mechanisms to maintain effective antimicrobial therapy.