Mast launches new CPE detection test

Mast has announced the launch of a simple new test to aid the detection of carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE).

The Mastdiscs Combi Carba Plus assay has been developed for the phenotypic confirmation of carbapenemase activity amongst Enterobacteriaceae, with its five-disc system enabling the differentiation of MBL, KPC and OXA-48-like carbapenemases.

Capabilities include reliable discrimination of KPC from AmpC-producing isolates, while the addition of a temocillin disc containing an MBL inhibitor – rather than a temocillin-only disc –  prevents MBLs from being incorrectly identified as OXA-48.

This is important because CPE detection is typically considered difficult due to the diverse range of resistance profiles employed among differing carbapenemase enzymes.

The manufacturer said: "Although there are a variety of tests available for the detection of MBL and KPC enzymes, OXA-48-like enzymes continue to be problematic in their identification."

Mast believes this new product offering will be a useful tool in the fight against antibiotic resistance, particularly as the incidence of CPE rises and limits the effectiveness of current antibiotics.

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