Sensitivity analysis

Alternative names:

antibiotic sensitivity

How the test is performed:

Colonies of microorganisms are combined with antimicrobial agents, and observed to see if the antimicrobial inhibits the growth of the microorganism. The test helps determine which therapy should be effective against organisms that cause infection.

How to prepare for the test:

There is no special preparation. The test is performed in conjunction with a culture.

How the test will feel:

The way the test feels depends upon the method used for obtaining the specific culture.

Why the test is performed:

The test determines the appropriate drug therapy for infections, or determines the drug resistance of an organism. Certain microorganisms may have a genetic variant strain that is not susceptible to the standard antibiotic therapy.