Abstract
A multiwell, dried antimicrobial agent susceptibility test system, Sceptor (BBL Microbiology Systems, Cockeysville, Md.), was tested. The system was compared directly with a reference microdilution method by using two collections of stock cultures and 305 fresh clinical isolates. Sceptor was found to be in agreement (+/- log2 dilution) with the reference microdilution method in 96.9 to 98.3% of 9,840 minimal inhibitory concentration determinations performed on stock strains and 95.0% of 7,308 minimal inhibitory concentrations obtained from the clinical isolates. The intralaboratory and interlaboratory reproducibility on stock strains was 97.6 and 97.2%, respectively. The intralaboratory reproducibility for the clinical isolates was 96.9%. Sceptor accurately categorized representative challenge strains of methicillin-resistant staphylococci, beta-lactamase-producing bacteria, organisms producing other antimicrobial agent-inactivating enzymes, and permeability mutants as resistant. Only 0.2% very major errors (false-sensitive minimal inhibitory concentrations by Sceptor) were identified among the clinical isolate test results, the majority being clinically insignificant. The product is accurate and reliable, has a long shelf life, and seems applicable for routine use in clinical laboratories.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
