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Methods for susceptibility testing of anaerobic bacteria
B Olsson-Liljequist1, C E Nord
1Swedish Institute for Infection Control, Stockholm.
Summary
Determining anaerobic bacteria susceptibility involves surveillance studies or in vitro testing. Broth microdilution and E tests are recommended for routine antimicrobial susceptibility testing to guide therapy.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Antimicrobial Resistance
Background:
- Accurate antimicrobial susceptibility testing is crucial for guiding treatment of anaerobic bacterial infections.
- Two primary approaches exist: large-scale surveillance studies and individual in vitro susceptibility tests for clinical isolates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare methods for determining the antimicrobial susceptibility of anaerobic bacteria.
- To provide guidance on selecting appropriate methods for surveillance and routine clinical testing.
- To advocate for standardized guidelines across regions.
Main Methods:
- Review of established methods including agar dilution, broth microdilution, and gradient diffusion (E test).
- Discussion of the suitability of each method for different applications, such as surveillance versus routine clinical guidance.
- Comparison of current practices and recommendations.
Main Results:
- Agar dilution is the reference method suitable for surveillance studies.
- Broth microdilution is recommended for routine susceptibility testing of anaerobes.
- The E test is also identified as a potentially useful method for routine testing.
Conclusions:
- Standardized guidelines for anaerobic bacteria susceptibility testing and breakpoint determination are needed.
- Harmonization of methods between the United States and European countries is recommended.
- Appropriate method selection ensures effective antimicrobial therapy for anaerobic infections.