Typically, standard culture methods take two days to three days to characterize bacteria and test their antimicrobial resistances from a urine sample. Early on in the study, university researchers found the nanopore MinION device could do the same in just 12 hours from a urine sample. Now, that time has been shortened to four hours. While UTI’s are usually mild, serious cases can lead to hospitalization.
The study, published in the Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, involved removing human cells from patients’ urine samples. MinION then sequenced the bacteria and their DNA. Researchers analyzed the sequences and compared the results with standard culture and antibiotic susceptibility testing.
“Both the type of bacteria and the acquired resistance genes were identified reliably, agreeing with conventional laboratory testing. Challenges remain, though. The approach is currently best suited to difficult cases, but improving hospitals’ antibiotic stewardship requires new diagnostics to be deployed widely,” said Dr Justin O’Grady of UEA’s Norwich Medical School.
More articles on healthcare quality:
Wireless diagnostic device can detect flu strains within minutes
Feed a cold, starve a fever? Old saying may have truth behind it, new research finds
Birth control helps heal lungs damaged by influenza, finds study
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.