Carbapenemase Drug resistance detection Panel (Qualitative) by Real Time PCR

Carbapenemase Drug Resistance Detection Panel (Qualitative) by Real-Time PCR

What is this test?

The Carbapenemase Drug Resistance Detection Panel (Qualitative) by Real-Time PCR is a molecular diagnostic test that detects genes responsible for carbapenem antibiotic resistance in bacteria. Carbapenems are considered last-resort antibiotics, and identifying resistance genes helps clinicians choose the most effective treatment and implement infection control measures.

Why is this test done?

• Detect carbapenem-resistant bacteria rapidly.
• Identify the presence of carbapenemase-producing organisms (CPOs).
• Guide appropriate antibiotic therapy.
• Support hospital infection prevention and control.
• Reduce the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms.

When is this test recommended?

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have:

• Severe bacterial infections not responding to antibiotics.
• Suspected hospital-acquired (nosocomial) infections.
• Bloodstream, urinary tract, respiratory, or wound infections.
• History of multidrug-resistant bacterial infection.
• Close contact with patients carrying carbapenem-resistant organisms.

Sample Required

• Clinical specimen as advised by the physician (such as bacterial isolate, swab, urine, blood, or other appropriate sample).

Preparation

• No special preparation is required.
• Follow your healthcare provider's instructions regarding sample collection.

Benefits

• Rapid and accurate detection of resistance genes.
• Faster than conventional culture-based methods.
• Helps optimize antibiotic treatment.
• Supports antimicrobial stewardship.
• Improves patient management and infection control.

Interpretation

• Positive: One or more carbapenemase resistance genes detected, indicating the presence of carbapenem-resistant bacteria.
• Negative: No targeted carbapenemase resistance genes detected. However, resistance due to other mechanisms cannot be completely ruled out.

Who should get tested?

• Hospitalized patients with severe infections.
• ICU patients.
• Patients with recurrent or difficult-to-treat bacterial infections.
• Individuals at risk of multidrug-resistant bacterial infections.
• Patients referred by infectious disease specialists.

Note: This is a qualitative PCR test that detects the presence or absence of specific carbapenemase resistance genes. Results should always be interpreted along with clinical findings, culture reports, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.