What's the use of susceptibility testing?

Area of Science:

• Medical Microbiology
• Infectious Diseases
• Clinical Pharmacy

Background:

• Many common infections, especially in outpatient settings, are effectively managed with empirical antibiotic treatment.
• Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) is not universally required for all infections.
• Monitoring antibiotic resistance trends is important but can be achieved through targeted surveys.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the necessity and impact of routine antibiotic susceptibility testing.
• To highlight the critical role of AST in specific clinical scenarios.
• To emphasize the influence of microbiology laboratory expertise on antibiotic stewardship.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical practices regarding antibiotic use.
• Analysis of the role of empirical treatment versus targeted therapy.
• Consideration of data collection for antibiotic resistance surveillance.

Main Results:

• Empirical antibiotic therapy is sufficient for a significant proportion of infections.
• AST is indispensable in certain clinical situations for optimal patient management.
• Microbiology laboratory activities significantly influence antibiotic prescribing patterns.

Conclusions:

• Routine AST is not always essential, but remains vital in specific cases.
• Laboratory expertise is key to effective antibiotic stewardship and combating resistance.
• A balanced approach to AST is necessary, considering both clinical need and resistance monitoring.