AN OVERVIEW OF BACTERIAL CULTURE TECHNIQUES IN CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY
By Sarah Huda Al-Mansour
Research Article
AN OVERVIEW OF BACTERIAL CULTURE TECHNIQUES IN CLINICAL MICROBIOLOGY
ISSN: 3067-2686
DOI Prefix: 10.5281/zenodo.
Abstract
Bacterial culture remains a cornerstone diagnostic technique in clinical microbiology, playing a crucial role in the identification of pathogenic bacteria and determining their antibiotic susceptibility. Over the years, advances in bacterial culture methods have significantly enhanced the efficiency, accuracy, and speed of clinical diagnostics. This essay examines both current and past strategies employed in bacterial culture, with a focus on their evolution and impact on clinical microbiology. Initially developed as the primary method to study human microbiota, bacterial culture involves the use of artificial media to grow and isolate bacteria. The evolution of culture techniques has led to innovations such as selective media, enrichment techniques, and automated systems, which have greatly improved diagnostic precision and turnaround times. Moreover, the integration of molecular techniques, such as PCR and next-generation sequencing, has further enhanced the ability to detect and identify a wide range of bacterial pathogens. Understanding these historical and modern strategies allows for a deeper appreciation of their role in clinical diagnostics and offers valuable insights into future advancements. This review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the developments in bacterial culture techniques and their ongoing contribution to clinical microbiology, underscoring their vital role in patient care and public health.