Bacteriological examination of wound surfaces (wounds, synovial fluid, tracheal contents, drains, catheters) with identification of pathogens and determination of antibiogram using automatic analyzers AF300; Scan4000 according to EUCAST methodology

Bacteriological culture of wound surfaces (vesicles, pustules) and determination of antibiotic sensitivity is an important stage in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases. This process helps to identify pathogens that cause the disease and select the most effective antibiotic for further treatment. In this article, we will consider the process of bacteriological culture and determination of antibiotic sensitivity, as well as the use of automatic analyzers in this process.

Bacteriological culture

Bacterial culture is a laboratory method used to detect and identify bacteria in biomaterial obtained from wound surfaces, such as vesicles and pustules. The procedure involves several basic steps:

1. Biomaterial collection: The doctor takes a sample of biomaterial from the wound using a sterile swab or cotton swab. The collection must be done carefully to avoid contaminating the sample with other microorganisms.
2. Transferring the sample to the laboratory: The collected sample is transported to the laboratory under special conditions to ensure the integrity of the bacteria is maintained.
3. Applying the sample to the agar loop: The lab technician uses an agar loop to evenly distribute bacteria on an agar plate.
4. Bacterial cultivation: An agar plate with distributed bacteria is cultured under optimal temperature and humidity conditions to promote bacterial growth.
5. Bacteria identification: After the bacteria grow, laboratory technicians identify the type of bacteria using special tests and biochemical reactions.

Determination of antibiotic sensitivity

After identifying the bacteria, their sensitivity to antibiotics is determined. This step is very important for choosing the optimal treatment. The procedure includes the following steps:

1. Agar plate preparation: A lab technician places disks with various antibiotics on an agar plate.
2. Adding bacteria to the plate: The lab technician spreads bacteria onto an agar plate, spacing them evenly.
3. Cultivation with discs: A plate with bacteria and antibiotic discs is cultured, and the antibiotics begin to diffuse into the medium around the discs.
4. Determination of sensitivity zones: After culturing the bacteria, lab technicians measure the zones of inhibition (zones of sensitivity) around each antibiotic disk. The size of these zones indicates the bacteria's sensitivity to a particular antibiotic.

Automatic analyzer and its role

Automated analyzers greatly simplify the process of bacteriological culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing. They allow these studies to be performed faster and more accurately, minimizing the risk of errors and improving results. Automated systems are able to analyze a large number of samples simultaneously and provide results faster than a human can.

In conclusion, bacteriological culture of wound surfaces and determination of antibiotic sensitivity are important steps in the treatment of infectious diseases. They help to identify pathogens and select the most effective antibiotic for further treatment, ensuring successful recovery of the patient. Automated analyzers make this process even more efficient and accurate.