Minimum Inhibitory Concentration
The Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) is the lowest concentration of an antimicrobial agent that prevents the visible growth of a microorganism. It is a crucial measurement in microbiology, particularly in determining the effectiveness of antibiotics against bacteria. By identifying the MIC, healthcare professionals can choose the appropriate treatment for infections.
MIC testing is typically performed using methods like broth dilution or agar diffusion. The results help guide clinicians in prescribing the right dosage of antibiotics, ensuring that the treatment is both effective and minimizes the risk of developing antibiotic resistance in pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus or Escherichia coli.