WHO Antimicrobial Resistance Phenotype Testing
The World Health Organization (WHO) has established guidelines to address the growing global threat of antimicrobial resistance. One critical component in this effort is antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST), which evaluates whether a microorganism can be killed or inhibited by an antibiotic. This service focuses on the WHO Antimicrobial Resistance Phenotype Testing, specifically designed to identify and monitor the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens, ensuring the efficacy of current treatments.
The testing process involves several steps, starting with the collection of a clinical specimen, which is then cultured in vitro. The microorganisms are exposed to various antibiotics under controlled conditions, and the outcome determines the susceptibility or resistance profile. This information is crucial for clinicians to select appropriate treatment regimens that are effective against resistant strains.
At our facility, we adhere strictly to international standards such as ISO 17025:2017, ensuring accuracy and reliability in our testing protocols. Our state-of-the-art laboratory uses advanced technologies like automated broth microdilution systems (e.g., VITEK-2) which comply with the guidelines set by WHO and other relevant bodies.
The process is meticulously documented throughout to ensure reproducibility and compliance with regulatory requirements. This documentation includes detailed records of all test parameters, including incubation times, temperatures, and antibiotic concentrations used. The results are reported according to standardized formats recommended by WHO, providing clear, actionable insights for healthcare providers.
Our expertise in this area allows us to offer comprehensive support not just in conducting the tests but also in interpreting the data accurately. This ensures that healthcare professionals can make informed decisions about patient care and contribute to global efforts against antimicrobial resistance.
Benefits
- Informed Treatment Decisions: Accurate susceptibility testing helps clinicians choose appropriate antibiotics, improving treatment outcomes.
- Patient Safety: Ensures that patients receive effective therapy without unnecessary exposure to ineffective drugs.
- Public Health Impact: By identifying resistant strains early, we can help prevent the spread of these pathogens within communities and healthcare settings.
- Cost-Effective: Targeted treatment reduces prolonged hospital stays and the need for second-line antibiotics which are often more expensive.
The benefits extend beyond individual patients. By contributing to a broader understanding of resistance patterns, this service plays a vital role in guiding public health policies and strategies aimed at combating antimicrobial resistance.
Customer Impact and Satisfaction
- Prompt Reporting: Timely delivery of results ensures that healthcare providers have the necessary information to start treatment promptly.
- Comprehensive Support: Our team provides detailed reports and consultations, enhancing customer confidence in our services.
- Regulatory Compliance: Adherence to international standards guarantees that all test procedures meet legal and regulatory requirements.
- Value for Money: With accurate and reliable results, customers receive the most effective treatments at a cost-effective price point.
We strive to exceed customer expectations by offering exceptional service quality. Positive feedback from our clients attests to our commitment to excellence in every aspect of antimicrobial resistance testing.
Use Cases and Application Examples
| Condition | Treatment Scenario | Test Parameters |
|---|---|---|
| Methicillin-resistant S. aureus | Initial treatment selection in hospital-acquired infections. | Automated broth microdilution with multiple antibiotics including methicillin, oxacillin, and vancomycin. |
| Tuberculosis (TB) | Determining the most effective first-line therapy. | VITEK-2 automated system using several antitubercular agents like isoniazid, rifampicin, pyrazinamide, and ethambutol. |
| Vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) | Monitoring the effectiveness of vancomycin therapy in critically ill patients. | Susceptibility testing with vancomycin, teicoplanin, linezolid, and daptomycin. |
| Multidrug-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa | Optimizing antibiotic therapy in immunocompromised patients. | Broth microdilution with amikacin, imipenem, colistin, and aztreonam. |
In each case, the specific test parameters are tailored to the suspected pathogen and the treatment scenario. This ensures that we provide the most relevant information for clinical decision-making.
