Perspective Article Open Access

Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing: Methods, Applications, and Clinical Relevance

Abstract

Antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) is a critical laboratory procedure that guides the selection of appropriate antimicrobial therapy, informs infection control measures, and supports surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). The emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms has intensified the need for accurate, rapid, and reproducible AST methods. This methodological review provides a comprehensive overview of AST techniques, including traditional culture-based methods (disk diffusion, broth dilution, agar dilution, and E-test), automated systems, and emerging molecular and microfluidic approaches. We discuss standardization, interpretation guidelines, quality control, clinical applications, and limitations of each method. Understanding the principles and practical considerations of AST is essential for optimizing patient care and combating the global threat of AMR.

Arjun Mehta

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