Evaluation of the rapid lateral flow assay (LFA) for detection of five major carbapenemase enzyme families in genotypically characterised bacterial isolates

Background whereas, it showed delayed positivity (>15 min) to identify one strain producing NDM-1 (thus considered false negative), accounting to sensitivity of 92.3 per cent (n=12/13) for detection of NDM. It correctly identified six strains simultaneously producing OXA-48-like and NDM, and one strain producing NDM-1 and KPC. Interpretation & conclusions The assay, being robust and cost-effective, with a short turn-around-time, will prove to be a great addition to the diagnostic armamentarium, helping in implementing antimicrobial stewardship and preventing AMR.