Antibiotic Sensitivity
Antibiotic sensitivity refers to the ability of bacteria to be inhibited or killed by specific antibiotics. When a bacterial infection occurs, doctors often perform tests to determine which antibiotics are effective against the bacteria causing the infection. This process helps in selecting the most appropriate treatment, ensuring that the chosen antibiotic can effectively combat the infection.
Understanding antibiotic sensitivity is crucial in combating antibiotic resistance, a growing public health concern. When bacteria become resistant to antibiotics, they can survive and multiply even in the presence of these medications, making infections harder to treat. By identifying sensitivity, healthcare providers can use antibiotics more effectively and preserve their efficacy.