title: Antimicrobial resistance in gram-positive bacteria: the myth of the MIC. Minimum inhibitory concentration.
abstract: Although much progress has occurred in the fight to treat infection, resistant bacteria increasingly are becoming problematic. The minimum inhibitory concentration is easily determined, yet its definition, clinical application, and relevance are confusing. In addition, errors can occur during in vitro susceptibility testing. The mechanism of resistance for different organisms is discussed as are the pitfalls of susceptibility testing and the prescription of antimicrobial agents.
authors.affiliation: Division of Pharmacy Practice & Science, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington 40536-0082, USA.
authors.forename: R P
authors.initials: RP
authors.lastname: Rapp
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004352:Drug Resistance, Microbial / Q000235:genetics*; D006090:Gram-Negative Bacteria / Q000235:genetics; D006094:Gram-Positive Bacteria / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D008826:Microbial Sensitivity Tests / Q000592:standards*
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents