Microbiology
Cutaneous diseases can be accompanied by bacterial and/or fungal complications. A microbiological identification and a suitable treatment are vital to properly resolve the initial dermatological disease.
Microbiological culture
Microbiological cultures to identify AEROBIC and ANAEROBIC micro-organisms from all kinds of samples (skin biopsies, ear discharge, urine, and all types of body fluids (joint, synovial, cerebrospinal, etc).
- Direct observation of the sample with the aim of assessing the presence and abundance of micro-organisms in the sample. A cytology is routinely performed of the swabs received.
- Sowing the sample in specific culture media: Blood agar, MacConkey, Saboraud, specific medium for Pseudomonas. Where cocci are observed in the cytology, Met R-Agar is used (specific medium for detecting methicillin-resistant staphylococcus pseudintermedius [MRSP]).
- Identifying the genus and species of the micro-organism present in the sample from isolated colonies.
From the samples received, a specific protocol will be followed in order to identify the micro-organism:
Antibiogram
- Adapted antibiograms: Antibiotics are selected based on the type of sample received and the isolated micro-organism.
- Dynamic antibiograms: Antibiotics are being modified based on the level of resistance micro-organisms present.
- Inhibition halos: We include in the reports the inhibition halo reading for each antibiotic, in order to better select the treatment to be initiated.
- Specific antibiogram for MRSP
Clinical interpretation
From the inhibition halo reading for each antibiotic, the most suitable drugs for each bacteria are recommended based on their clinical usefulness and their commercial availability.
In our microbiology department the processing of samples is carried out individually based on the cytology findings, and so the most specific antibiotic cultures are selected.
Dermatophyte culture
From the samples received (fur, scales and nails) a specific protocol will be followed:
A first report is sent after 7 days and the sample remains in the incubator for 3 more weeks in order to detect late growths.
Where this late growth occurs, a new report will be made.