BACTERICIDAL TITRE (SCHLICHTER TEST) - serum

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Specimen: 5-10 mL blood in plain, sterile tube.

Method: In vitro test (on isolate) of antibacterial activity in serum.

Application: To assess adequacy of antimicrobial therapy in bacterial endocarditis, esp when more than one agent is being given. The clinical value of this test is dubious.

Interpretation: Trough titre (immediately before dose) of 8-16 and peak titre (about 1 hour after dose) of >64 is said to indicate adequate antibiotic dosage.

Reference: Schlichter JG et al. Am J Med Sci 1948; 217: 600-608.

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