Bio-Rad β Lacta test

The β LACTA test is a manual qualitative colorimetric test used for detecting strains with decreased susceptibility to third-generation cephalosporins. This decreased susceptibility is due to the presence of specific enzymes in the bacteria. The test may be performed either directly with isolated colonies of Enterobacteriaceae or with bacterial pellets from positive blood cultures or urine, all from any patient suffering from bloodstream infections, urinary tract infections, etc. The β LACTA test provides an aid to diagnosis for the detection of Enterobacteriaceae with decreased susceptibility to third-generation cephalosporins, and it is not intended to replace conventional antimicrobial susceptibility testing methods.