Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing for NTM & Aerobic Actinomycetes
For detailed information on AST testing, please visit the Advanced Diagnostic Laboratories Test Menu.
National Jewish Health Mycobacteriology Laboratory provides antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) for nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) such as atypical mycobacterium avium complex, mycobacterium avium intracellulare and Aerobic Actinomycetes (Nocardia, Rhodococcus, Tsukamurella and Gordonia).
Specifically, minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) are determined using a variety of platforms. This allows us to obtain the most meaningful results for healthcare providers.
Rapidly Growing NTM & Aerobic Actinomycetes
A microdilution MIC method is used for testing mycobacteria such as M. abscessus, M. chelonae, M. fortuitum and M. massiliense, as well as some other aerobic actinomycetes. Currently we test 19 antimicrobials, plus amikacin/clofazimine.
Slowly Growing NTM
Mycobacteria such as M. avium, M. intracellulare, M. chimaera and M. simiae are tested using a non-radiometric macrodilution assay for MIC determination. Our laboratory is able to provide MIC results for various antimicrobials, including a combination of rifampin/ethambutol.
