Speeding up sepsis diagnostics with phenotypic antibiotic susceptibility testing for better patient care

Dr. Ágnes Pál-Sonnevend, Professor of Microbiology, Head of Laboratory at the Laboratory of Clinical Microbiology and Hospital Hygiene at the University of Pécs, highlights the critical role of time in sepsis diagnostics. While advancements like mass spectrometry have improved bacterial identification, rapid antimicrobial susceptibility reporting remains a challenge, particularly in hospitals facing high rates of antimicrobial resistance. Faster phenotypic testing could significantly enhance patient treatment, ensuring clinicians have timely data to combat multi drug-resistant infections. Addressing logistical barriers and improving microbiology service efficiency will not only advance patient care but also elevate the role of microbiologists within the medical field.

This video was filmed at ESCMID Global 2025 in Vienna, Austria.