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Failure to recognize rapidly growing mycobacteria in a proficiency testing sample without specific request--a wider
A von Graevenitz1, V Pünter-Streit
1Department of Medical Microbiology, University of Zurich, Switzerland. AvG@immv.unizh.ch
European Journal of Epidemiology
|September 23, 1998
Summary
Many clinical labs underestimate rapidly growing mycobacteria, like Mycobacterium fortuitum. Performing acid-fast stains on suspicious Gram-positive rods is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Clinical Diagnostics
- Mycobacterial Infections
Background:
- Mycobacterium fortuitum is a rapidly growing mycobacterium.
- Accurate identification of mycobacteria is essential for patient treatment.
- External quality control programs assess laboratory performance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic practices for Mycobacterium fortuitum in a quality control setting.
- To determine the frequency of acid-fast stain usage for detecting rapidly growing mycobacteria.
Main Methods:
- Fifty participants in the Swiss External Quality Control Program received a sample with M. fortuitum.
- Laboratories were assessed on their use of acid-fast stains and accurate reporting.
- Data on diagnostic methods and results were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- Only 31 out of 50 participants used acid-fast stains.
- A minority of 13 participants correctly identified M. fortuitum or rapidly growing mycobacteria.
- Underutilization of appropriate staining techniques was observed.
Conclusions:
- The prevalence of rapidly growing mycobacteria in routine samples is likely underestimated.
- Acid-fast stains should be routinely considered for Gram-positive rods suggestive of mycobacteria.
- Improved diagnostic protocols are needed for mycobacterial detection.