scope:

Many laboratories use commercial systems for identification of microorganisms, because the laboratories lack the confidence in or resources for performing in-house validations of alternative methods. Use of commercial panels has resulted in greater standardization and more accurate taxonomic identifications, albeit at relatively higher cost and slower turnaround time. This document provides well-documented, published studies to guide laboratories in choosing rapid, reliable, and often less expensive alternatives to commercial systems. This guideline shares the experience and expertise of practicing microbiologists for reporting bacterial and yeast identifications more rapidly than by traditional methods.