Revisiting conventional microbiology techniques in the era of molecular testing

Abstract

The diagnosis of infectious diseases has always been a matter of concern for clinicians worldwide. Although the conventional techniques like microscopy and culture have served the purpose since ages, they have been found to be inadequate now with the advent of modern technology including automated identification systems and molecular testing. The newer technology including Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization – Time of Flight and molecular tests such as multiplex polymerase chain reactions and Next Generation Sequencing, has undoubtedly paved the way for diagnosis and discovery of various novel pathogens. This has subsequently given rise to a mindset that the conventional techniques are redundant and hence, should be abandoned. The authors, through the current review, would like to present a perspective in favour of the conventional techniques which still are one of the simplest, most inexpensive methods for diagnosing infectious diseases and provide us with the precious antimicrobial susceptibility data to guide our antimicrobial stewardship programmes. Further, considering the limited availability of the state-of-the-art molecular testing facilities across the country, it is recommended that rather than using them exclusively or separately, conventional methods and the molecular tests be used in conjunction wherever available and feasible.