Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing: Methodologies and Interpretation of Results

This exam addresses methodologies for antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) and the interpretation of results. Emphasis will be placed on both quantitative and qualitative techniques and their relevance in guiding therapeutic decisions.

The importance of AST in clinical microbiology cannot be overstated, as it directly influences the choice of treatment and contributes to strategies for managing antibiotic resistance among pathogens.

Participants will be tested on their verbal articulation of various AST methods, including disk diffusion and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Candidates will also need to interpret hypothetical data accurately.

An understanding of the impact of susceptibility results on patient outcomes and public health will be critical for successful performance in this examination.