The antibiogram: key considerations for its development and utilization

Area of Science:

• Clinical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Antimicrobial Stewardship

Background:

• Antibiograms are vital for monitoring antimicrobial resistance patterns.
• They guide empirical antimicrobial therapy selection in healthcare settings.
• Current practices show variations in antibiogram development methodologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight inconsistencies in antibiogram development despite CLSI guidelines.
• To emphasize the importance of standardized antibiogram creation for accuracy and reliability.
• To advocate for improved accessibility and education on antibiogram interpretation and application.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing data and examples on antibiogram development.
• Analysis of variations in methodologies compared to CLSI M39 guidelines.
• Discussion of the implications of non-standardized approaches.

Main Results:

• Institutions have not fully adopted standardized antibiogram development methods.
• Variations in methodology compromise the accuracy and validity of antibiograms.
• Understanding antibiogram limitations is critical for clinical decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Adherence to CLSI M39 recommendations ensures reliable antibiograms.
• Improved accessibility and education are needed for optimal prescribers' use.
• Creation of an abbreviated antibiogram and multidisciplinary stewardship are proposed.