scope:

Abstract

The data in the tables are valid only if the methodologies in CLSI document VET03¹ are followed. This guideline contains information about disk and broth dilution susceptibility test procedures for bacteria isolated from aquatic animals. The clinical importance of antimicrobial susceptibility test results demands that these tests be performed under optimal conditions and that laboratories have the capability to interpret results based on the most current clinical breakpoint or epidemiological cutoff value interpretive categories.

The tables presented in VET04 represent the most current information for drug selection, interpretation quality control using the procedures standardized in VET03¹. Users should replace previously published tables with these new tables. Changes in the tables since the previous editions appear in boldface type. Users should consider the interpretive categories presented in these tables most useful to isolates of Aeromonas salmonicida, Aeromonas hydrophila, Flavobacterium columnare, and Flavobacterium psychrophilum. Careful extrapolations may be possible to other bacterial species and with other similar antimicrobial agents, but only after consulting CLSI document VET09.² Fish disease diagnostic laboratories that typically conduct susceptibility testing less often than once per week should consult this document for revised guidance for frequency of QC.

Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI). Performance Standards for Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing of Bacteria Isolated From Aquatic Animals. 3rd ed. CLSI supplement VET04 (ISBN 978-1-68440-075-1 [Print]; ISBN 978-1-68440-076-8 [Electronic]). Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, 950 West Valley Road, Suite 2500, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087 USA, 2020.

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¹ CLSI. Methods for Antimicrobial Broth Dilution and Disk Diffusion Susceptibility Testing of Bacteria Isolated From Aquatic Animals. 2nd ed. CLSI guideline VET03. Wayne, PA: Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute; 2020.

² CLSI. Understanding Susceptibility Test Data as a Component of Antimicrobial Stewardship in Veterinary Settings. 1st ed. CLSI report VET09. Wayne, PA: Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute; 2019.