AC-13. Guidelines for the Laboratory Diagnosis of STEC Infections: Best Practices Promote Good Outcomes
Originally Presented: November 5, 2008
Speaker: Nancy Strockbine

Summary of Session: Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli (STEC) cause sporadic cases as well as large outbreaks of acute gastroenteritis, often with bloody diarrhea and progression to hemolytic uremic syndrome in approximately 10% of infected individuals. Balancing health care resources to provide quality patient care and a robust public health response for the detection and control of outbreaks by these organisms has been a challenge. Lecturers will review and discuss the latest guidelines for diagnosis of STEC infections, including patient selection, specimen handling and shipping, laboratory algorithms for rapid detection and isolation, and the pivotal role clinical and public health laboratories play in the management of these important infections.

Objectives: Upon completion of this Teleconference, participants should be able to:

• Explain the rational for STEC testing
• Describe a protocol for detection and isolation of STEC in the laboratory
• State the role of the primary diagnostic laboratory in interacting with public health to support surveillance activities

Intended Audience: Health care providers and laboratory testing personnel in clinical, reference and public health laboratories. Division C (Clinical Microbiology) and Y (Public Health)

CME Disclosures: The Presenter has nothing to disclose.

Termination of CME Credit: This program will not be eligible for CME/CE credit after November 5, 2009