Bloodstream infections (BSIs) are a major cause of mortality, claiming approximately 250,000 lives annually in North America and Europe. Effective management of BSIs relies heavily on antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), which determines how well specific antimicrobials inhibit the growth of pathogens. Traditionally, AST can be time-consuming, often leading clinicians to use broad-spectrum antimicrobials based on empirical data rather than precise results. This approach not only delays targeted treatment but also contributes to antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a critical issue in infectious disease management.
Recent advances in fast AST methods are significantly enhancing pathogen detection and susceptibility profiling, transforming clinical practice. Traditionally, AST involves lengthy processes that delay targeted treatment and contribute to the overuse of broad-spectrum antimicrobials. However, new technologies have emerged that streamline this process by enabling AST directly from positive blood cultures. These innovations drastically cut down the wait time, allowing for much faster identification of pathogens and their susceptibility profiles. As a result, clinicians can make more accurate and timely treatment decisions, reducing the risk of complications and improving patient outcomes.
By integrating these advanced methods, clinical labs can provide crucial information more swiftly, addressing the urgent need for rapid and precise diagnostic tools in managing bloodstream infections.
Download this eBook to learn:
The critical role of AST in treating BSIs and combating AMR
How fast AST technologies improve patient outcomes and streamline workflows
A comparison of phenotypic and genomic methods in rapid AST
Key advancements and their impact on clinical practice
