From CLSI to EUCAST, a necessary step in Spanish laboratories

Area of Science:

• Clinical Microbiology
• Antimicrobial Resistance

Background:

• Many Spanish clinical microbiology laboratories still adhere to Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines for antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST).
• A transition towards European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST) regulations is necessary for harmonized AST practices across Europe.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a practical roadmap for Spanish clinical microbiology laboratories transitioning from CLSI to EUCAST AST guidelines.
• To facilitate the adaptation of EUCAST recommendations to the specific clinical and epidemiological context of Spain.
• To ensure the full implementation of EUCAST standards in all Spanish microbiology laboratories.

Main Methods:

• Development of a "roadmap" or decalogue of recommendations by the Spanish Antibiogram Committee (COESANT).
• Focus on practical steps for laboratories to adopt EUCAST methodology.
• Consideration of Spanish clinical and epidemiological realities.

Main Results:

• A clear set of recommendations is provided to guide the transition process.
• The roadmap aims to simplify the adoption of EUCAST standards.
• The document addresses the practical challenges of implementing new AST regulations.

Conclusions:

• The COESANT roadmap supports Spanish laboratories in adopting EUCAST guidelines for antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
• Successful transition will enhance the alignment of Spanish practices with European standards.
• This initiative promotes standardized and accurate AST, crucial for effective antimicrobial stewardship.