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Evaluation of the new DrySlide beta-lactamase test
J W Dyke1, W J Brown, J M Morris
1Department of Pathology, Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7980.
American Journal of Clinical Pathology
|June 1, 1994
Summary
The Difco DrySlide beta-lactamase test accurately detects beta-lactamase production in common clinical bacteria. This convenient method showed high agreement with the BBL Cefinase reagent for identifying antibiotic resistance.
Area of Science:
- Clinical microbiology
- Bacterial antibiotic resistance
Background:
- Beta-lactamase enzymes confer resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics.
- Accurate and rapid detection of beta-lactamase production is crucial for guiding antimicrobial therapy in clinical settings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the performance of the Difco DrySlide beta-lactamase test.
- To compare the DrySlide test with the BBL Cefinase reagent for detecting beta-lactamase activity.
Main Methods:
- Four hundred thirteen recent clinical isolates of Staphylococcus, Haemophilus, Moraxella, and Neisseria species were tested.
- Beta-lactamase production was assessed using the Difco DrySlide test and the BBL Cefinase reagent.
- Results from both methods were compared to determine agreement.
Main Results:
- A total of 258 out of 413 isolates (62.5%) tested positive for beta-lactamase production.
- The Difco DrySlide test demonstrated 99.8% agreement with the BBL Cefinase reagent.
- Only one isolate of Staphylococcus aureus showed discordant results (DrySlide-negative, Cefinase-positive).
Conclusions:
- The Difco DrySlide beta-lactamase test is a highly accurate and reliable method for detecting beta-lactamase activity in clinical isolates.
- Its convenient format makes it suitable for routine use in clinical laboratories.
- The test offers excellent concordance with the established BBL Cefinase reagent.