At La Trigaleña Clinical Laboratory, our commitment is to offer reliable, fast, and accurate results for each patient. We know that behind every sample lies a story, a health need, and an important medical decision.

That’s why we’ve incorporated the most advanced methods in microbial identification and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) antimicrobial susceptibility testing, using cutting-edge technology developed by Beckman Coulter.

This advancement reinforces our position as a leading clinical laboratory in clinical microbiology, committed to innovation, quality, and diagnostic excellence.

What is microbial identification?

When a clinical sample (such as urine, blood, sputum, or secretions) contains microorganisms, the first step is to identify which bacteria or fungus is present. Microbial identification allows us to determine the exact agent responsible for an infection, which is essential for applying the appropriate treatment.

At La Trigaleña Clinical Laboratory, we use automated technology that analyzes the biochemical reactions of each microorganism using multispectral photometric reading. This allows us to generate a unique profile that is compared to an international database, providing rapid, accurate, and standardized identification.

Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC): the key to antimicrobial sensitivity

The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), also known as the minimum inhibitory concentration, is the lowest value of an antibiotic that inhibits the visible growth of bacteria. This data is essential for determining whether a microorganism is sensitive, intermediate, or resistant to a drug.

For example:

• A low MIC indicates that the antibiotic is very effective against that bacteria.
• A high MIC indicates resistance: the antibiotic will not be effective at usual doses.

Knowing the MIC allows doctors to select the most appropriate treatment, avoid unnecessary antibiotic use, and combat bacterial resistance.

How an Automated MIC Test is Performed

1. The microorganism present in the clinical sample is isolated.
2. A standardized suspension is prepared with a controlled amount of bacteria.
3. This suspension is exposed to different concentrations of several antibiotics in special microplates.
4. The automated system detects microbial growth at each concentration.
5. Finally, the software calculates the exact MIC and classifies the microorganism as sensitive or resistant.

This process is performed according to international standards (CLSI / EUCAST), ensuring reproducible and reliable results.

Advantages of the automated MIC method

1. Faster results

The automated system analyzes multiple antibiotics simultaneously, reducing turnaround times.

2. Greater accuracy and reliability

Optical reading eliminates human variability and guarantees consistent results, validated by international criteria.

3. Detection of bacterial resistance

It allows the identification of resistant bacteria such as MRSA, ESBL, or carbapenemases, essential for epidemiological control.

4. Personalized treatments

The physician receives precise information to adjust therapy based on the microorganism and its actual behavior against antibiotics.

5. Contribution to public health

Each MIC test contributes to antimicrobial resistance surveillance and the rational use of antibiotics in the community.

Technology that supports innovation

To ensure the highest quality in our results, we rely on technology from Beckman Coulter, a world leader in clinical diagnostics. Its MicroScan autoSCAN-4 system integrates the bacterial identification (ID) and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST/MIC) processes into a single workflow.

Thanks to its high-resolution optical reading and updated database, we obtain more complete, accurate, and faster reports, strengthening the confidence of physicians and patients.

Commitment to quality and innovation

At La Trigaleña Clinical Laboratory, innovation is not limited to acquiring modern equipment; it means putting technology at the service of people. Every advancement we implement seeks to improve the patient experience, the accuracy of results, and the positive impact on the health of our community.

Our team of professionals is constantly training to ensure optimal use of diagnostic tools and reliable clinical interpretation.

Your health in the hands of science

If your doctor has ordered a bacteriological culture, an antimicrobial sensitivity test, or you need to accurately determine the causative agent of an infection, at La Trigaleña Clinical Laboratory we offer the perfect combination of human experience and cutting-edge technology.

Visit us or contact us to learn more about our services. With each result, we reaffirm our commitment to the precision, innovation, and trust that characterize us.