Performance

β-Lactamase production (ESBL, AmpC, carbapenemase) is the most common mechanism of β-lactam drug resistance in Gram negative bacteria. Each of the involved mechanisms can be plasmid-encoded and transfer horizontally. Moreover, plasmids continuously gather other antibiotic resistance determinants, ultimately closing to pan-resistance. Their spread leads to increased colonization pressure in hospital and community as well. It is crucial to ensure that proper surveillance is in place to help implement appropriate guidelines and policies for their spread control. Rapid detection of bacteria producing these enzymes also allows for de-escalation to more targeted therapy, to conserve carbapenem antibiotics for more serious infections.

Intended Use :

CHROMagar™ C3G^R is a selective and differential chromogenic culture medium, intended for use in the qualitative direct detection of gastrointestinal colonization with 3^rd generation cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteria (C3G^R-E) to aid in the prevention and control of C3G^R-E in healthcare settings. The test is performed with rectal swab and stools from patients to screen for C3G^R-E colonization. Results can be interpreted after 18-24 h of aerobic incubation at 35-37 °C.

The medium can also be used as an early warning indicator for diagnostic tests of infections to signal the possible presence of multi drug-resistant bacteria. This use does not replace the institution’s protocols. CHROMagar™ C3G^R is not intended to diagnose C3G^R-E infection nor to guide nor monitor treatment for infections. A lack of growth or the absence of colonies on CHROMagar™ C3G^R does not preclude the presence of C3G^R-E. Further identification, susceptibility testing, and epidemiological typing is needed on suspect colonies.