Susceptibility Testing

TriCore Reference Laboratories follows the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (formerly NCCLS) guidelines for susceptibility testing and provides interpretations in accordance with these guidelines. The guidelines discourage susceptibility testing for 1) non-pathogens, 2) isolates with predictable susceptibility patterns and 3) organisms that do not have published interpretation standards.
 

TriCore’s Infectious Diseases Department employs several methods for susceptibility testing, including automated MIC, Disc diffusion and gradient diffusion (E-Test). The method selected for each case is organism-specific; it also may be site-specific. The department reports appropriate antimicrobial agents selectively to match the pathogen, culture source and, when possible, the formulary of the submitting institution.
 

Repeat susceptibility testing is generally not performed on an isolate that has been isolated and tested within the past five days, or if the identical organism is isolated from another source submitted at the same time.
 

Experience has shown that TriCore’s approach to susceptibility testing is highly effective and generates clinically relevant results. We welcome the opportunity to consult with clients on specific or atypical cases, which will be considered for susceptibility testing on a case-by-case basis. Please contact Gary Overturf, MD, medical director, Infectious Diseases, or Stephen Young, PhD, scientific director, Infectious Diseases, for consideration of such cases. In Albuquerque, call 505-938-8879; outside Albuquerque, call 800-245-3296 Ext. 8879 toll-free.
 

For more information, contact Client Services at 505-938-8922 or 800-245-3296.