Comparison of VITEK ® 2, three different gradient strip tests and broth microdilution for detecting vanB-positive Enterococcus faecium isolates with low vancomycin MICs

ConclusionsWe recommend that EUCAST changes the present warning against the general use of MIC strips. When MIC strips are used to either exclude or confirm suspected vancomycin resistance inE. faecium, and a PCR is not available, the macromethod should be employed. For clinically relevant enterococci, where a rapid therapeutic decision is needed, a molecular test (e.g. PCR) should be favoured in order to save time and to further increase sensitivity.
Source: Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy - Category: Microbiology Source Type: research