Challenges and Innovations in Antimicrobial Resistance Testing

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is increasing at an alarming rate. Laboratory-based AMR surveillance programs have the crucial role of tracking AMR and reporting these data so that appropriate action may be taken. Such surveillance is essential, since AMR is not only an established cause of increased morbidity and mortality; it also contributes significantly to healthcare costs. The purpose of this review is to describe the complex nature of AMR, the laboratory-based surveillance of AMR, current and novel AMR testing methods, AMR testing guidelines and standards, and the challenges that AMR spread from food-animal isolates present to regional and international stakeholders. These topics suggest the need for a unique laboratory best practice guideline that can be utilized by laboratory stakeholders. Furthermore, testing guidelines that address the threats of spread and risk of AMR to human health, and specifically those threats that originate from the significant volume of food animals and their pathogens produced each year, are vital and should be discussed and addressed in a proposed chapter in the guidelines. Such a document could be utilized by veterinary clinical diagnostic laboratories and commercial laboratories working within the human and veterinary healthcare sectors.