Don't skip diagnostic tests, they are key to avoid antibiotic resistance: Experts

Time of India

11-05-2025

Nagpur: "Don't shun diagnostic tests; they are
," declared experts at the 3rd
, which concluded on Sunday. The two-day event, organised by Criticare Research Institute in association with the Association of Physicians of India, Vidarbha chapter, focused on '
', strongly emphasising addressing the growing global threat of AMR.Dr Camilla Rodrigues, a microbiologist and diagnostics veteran, stressed the importance of utilising modern diagnostic tools. "Nowadays, very good
are available to detect precisely which kind of infection a patient has, allowing for targeted antibiotic or other drug prescriptions," Dr Rodrigues explained."But many are still reluctant to conduct these tests. They consider them useless because some tests turn out negative, and they perceive them as costly. However, it is crucial to understand that these tests are essential to avoid the overuse of unnecessary antibiotics, which can lead to
and life-threatening consequences in the future.
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We are deeply concerned that by 2050, more than 50% of deaths worldwide could be attributed to antibiotic resistance." She also emphasised the importance of adult vaccination against common infections like flu and pneumonia, stating, "Lesser the use of antibiotics, better for your larger health."Veteran infectious disease physician Dr Rajeev Soman echoed these concerns, stating, "Antibiotic resistance is a major issue, and doctors are worried.
People are rampantly using antibiotics, often obtaining them over the counter, which is very dangerous. Even doctors need to educate them against this rampant use because once resistance develops, the antibiotic becomes useless. The number of effective antibiotics is limited globally, and new molecules are not being developed easily. Pharmaceutical companies are reluctant to invest in costly R&D for antibiotics that are destined to become ineffective."Dr Kapil Borawake, speaking on sepsis management, emphasised the significant problems antibiotic resistance poses in ICUs. "It becomes extremely difficult to handle patients in critical condition in the ICU if they have antibiotic resistance," Dr Borawake said. "Therefore, I advise patients to seek medical attention promptly and get their infections diagnosed early to avoid hospitalisation. We can prevent 20% of hospitalisations due to infectious diseases with early detection."The convention also featured discussions by Dr Deepak Jeswani and Dr Nikhil Balankhe on AMR and its clinical implications, with Dr Jeswani also giving a presentation on the approach to tropical fever in the ICU.Preventive Measures Against Antibiotic ResistanceVaccination: Prevents infections, reducing the need for antibioticsDiagnostic tests: Identify the specific infection, enabling targeted treatmentEarly detection: Seeking timely medical help can prevent severe infections and hospitalisationNo over-the-counter antibiotics: Avoid self-medication with antibiotics; always consult a doctor