Susceptibility Testing

Question 1

Assumptions of culture interpretation

Answer 1

Sample was appropriately collected
Sample was appropriately transported to lab
Clinical evidence of inflammation in the patient
Significant growth isolated

Question 2

Define MIC

Answer 2

Minimum Inhibitory Concentration

The lowest concentration of drug that completely inhibits growth of bacteria

Question 3

MIC of the bacteria will be compared to a “breakpoint MIC,” what the heck is that?

Answer 3

Maximum bacterial MIC that predicts successful therapy

Defines S, I, or R

Takes into account species - drug - bug - site

Question 4

What happens if breakpoint data for source - species - drug - bug - site isn’t available?

Answer 4

Antibiotic won’t be reported

Breakpoints for other species are used

Breakpoints for similar organisms are used

Reported as NI