New test identifies bacteria faster July 3, 2012 The Food and
Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved a faster, more
specific test for bloodstream infections, which will allow
physicians to more accurately prescribe the correct antibiotics
to patients. Unlike traditional tests, which can take several
days to identify bacteria, the new test works in a matter of
hours. It can identify the bacteria’s DNA and detect whether
bacteria carry antibiotic-resistant genes. The customary
approach to treating a virus is to prescribe several antibiotics
before test results come back, with the hope of correctly
guessing which antibiotic will help. Overusing antibiotics can
lead to a rise in antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The new test
could help minimize the prescription of unnecessary or
ineffective antibiotics, according to early supporters of the
tests. Source: NPR Health Blog