Richard Hopley, M.D. | 07/28/2024In today’s world, where good antibiotic stewardship is crucial to preserve the effectiveness of these drugs, a new tool is helping doctors fight back: Antibiotic Resistance (ABR) gene testing. This test identifies genes in bacteria that allows them to resist specific antibiotics.
Here’s how it benefits both the patient and the physician:
• More Effective Treatment: This test helps doctors choose the best antibiotic for the infection the first time. This is crucial, as using ineffective antibiotics can prolong the infection and contribute to antibiotic resistance.
• Fewer Recurring Infections: When the right antibiotic is used, the patient is less likely to experience a return of the infection.
• Combating Superbugs: By using antibiotics only when necessary, we can slow the development of antibiotic-resistant “superbugs” that are difficult or impossible to treat.
What to Know About the Test
• Not a Culture Test: Traditional antibiotic susceptibility testing involves growing bacteria in a lab and exposing them to different antibiotics. However, some bacteria can’t be grown this way. Genetic testing offers an alternative.
• Targeted for Specific Bacteria: PathAdvantage focuses on 33 genes that make bacteria resistant to eight common antibiotic classes.
• Not a Guarantee: Finding a resistance gene doesn’t always mean the bacteria are resistant, but it can guide treatment choices. For example, if your patient has a recurring infection and a gene for resistance to aminoglycosides is detected, it is prudent to utilize a different antibiotic class.
The Future of Antibiotic Use
Antibiotic Resistance (ABR) gene testing is a valuable tool in the fight against antibiotic resistance. By using this test judiciously, we can ensure more effective treatment for your patients.