Role of the Laboratory

Question 1

What are the two main reasons for monitoring serum levels of an antimicrobial?

Answer 1

To ensure that therapeutic levels have been achieved. However, note that blood or serum levels may not be the same as tissue levels depending upon the ability of the antibiotic to penetrate.

To ensure that levels are not so high as to be toxic.

Question 2

What antibiotics are most commonly measured?

Answer 2

Gentamicin and vancomycin