Use of β-Lactamase Inhibitors in Disk Tests To Detect Plasmid-Mediated AmpC β-Lactamases

Abstract

ABSTRACT Seeking a simple disk test for detection of organisms producing plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamases, we evaluated the diagnostic utility of the β-lactamase inhibitors 48-1220 (Ro 48-1220) and LN-2-128. Using NCCLS disk methodology, inhibition zone diameters were determined for five β-lactam antibiotics tested alone and in combination with 20 μg of either 48-1220 or LN-2-128. Using an increase of ≥4 mm in zone diameter in the presence of an inhibitor as a positive test, cefotetan with LN-2-128 and 48-1220 was adequate for the detection of organisms producing plasmid-mediated AmpCs (specificity of 90% and sensitivity of 100%).