A CRE test is a laboratory test performed on a sample of bodily fluid to determine if a person has an infection caused by carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) bacteria and to confirm antibiotic resistance.
CRE infections are serious because these bacteria are resistant to many antibiotics, making them difficult to treat. Identifying a CRE infection early through testing is crucial for implementing appropriate infection control measures and guiding treatment decisions.
How is a CRE Test Performed?
The process generally involves these steps:
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Sample Collection: A doctor or healthcare professional will collect a sample of bodily fluid. The type of fluid collected depends on the suspected site of infection. Common samples include:
- Blood
- Urine
- Wound drainage
- Sputum
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Laboratory Analysis: The collected sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis.
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Bacterial Identification: Lab technicians will attempt to grow bacteria from the sample in a culture. If Enterobacteriaceae bacteria are identified, they will be further tested to determine if they are CRE.
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Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing: If Enterobacteriaceae are identified, the bacteria are tested against a range of antibiotics to determine their susceptibility (i.e., which antibiotics, if any, can kill or inhibit the growth of the bacteria). This testing identifies if the bacteria are resistant to carbapenems, a class of powerful antibiotics.
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Results: The results of the test will indicate the specific type of bacteria present and their resistance profile.
Why is a CRE Test Important?
- Diagnosis: Confirms if a patient has a CRE infection.
- Treatment Guidance: Informs doctors which antibiotics, if any, are likely to be effective in treating the infection.
- Infection Control: Helps prevent the spread of CRE to other patients in healthcare settings. Early identification of CRE allows for implementation of isolation precautions and other infection control measures.
