Automated quantitative drug susceptibility testing of non-tuberculous mycobacteria using MGIT 960/EpiCenter TB eXiST

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the predictive value of in vitro drug susceptibility testing (DST) in slow-growing nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), knowledge on quantitative levels of drug susceptibility should be available. The aim of this studywas to investigate the suitability of theMGIT 960/TB eXiST systemfor quantitative DSTof NTM. Methods: We have assessed quantitative levels of drug susceptibility for clinical isolates of Mycobacterium avium, Mycobacteriumintracellulare and Mycobacteriumkansasii by comparing radiometric Bactec 460TB-based DST with non-radiometric DST using MGIT 960/TB eXiST. Results: MGIT 960/TB eXiST gives results comparable to those of Bactec 460TB. Conclusions: The MGIT 960/TB eXiST appears suitable for quantitative DST of NTM. © The Author 2011. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy. All rights reserved.