Where possible, antimicrobial susceptibilities are determined and reported in accordance with the European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (EUCAST). This is a system that has researched and validated the links between the minimum inhibitory concentrations of antibiotics and zone sizes using standard media and methods. Results are then issued as either ‘resistant’, ‘sensitive’ or ‘Dose dependent susceptible’ depending on cut offs also defined by EUCAST. However, some bug-drug combinations, that we consider essential for clinical management, are not included in the data sheets. In these circumstances, we continue to test in-vitro but decisions on cut offs have been taken based on a combination of use of Clinical and Laboratory standards Institute (CLSI) guidelines and clinical experience. We expect these gaps in the EUCAST datasheets to gradually be filled as they do more research.
Note the following bug-drug combinations are not supported by EUCAST methodology:
We currently use a combination of disc diffusion sensitivity testing, E-test strips and also an automated Microbroth dilution sensitivity method called Microscan – it uses EUCAST and occasionally CLSI methodology.
This has been introduced in 2021 to address those situations where resistance to an antibiotic can be overcome by giving a higher dose of antibiotic. If you see this in a report, then ensure you use the MAXIMUM dose in the BNF or on the Antimicrobial App/Joint formulary (whether it be oral or IV) in order to achieve the maximum likelihood that the antibiotic will be effective.
Clinical Guidance for Dose-Dependant Susceptible (DDS) Results
Please see test page for the specific sample type for turnaround times – Test A-Z
Susceptibility Testing – Lab Tests Online UK
For Hospital – please consult Microguide – Antimicrobial Guidance for RDUH
For GPs – please consult North & East Devon Formulary
Specimen Labelling Procedure
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