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Antibiotic Susceptibility Testing for Amikacin (Slow Growth Method)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test helps determine if your bacteria are resistant or sensitive to the antibiotic amikacin, which is used to treat serious infections caused by certain types of bacteria.

Quick summary

["Assesses bacterial response to amikacin for infection treatment planning."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
23624-0
Short code
Deprecated Amikacin Islt SlowMyco
Synonyms
Deprecated Amikacin Islt SlowMyco
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
slow-growing-mycobacteria
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Test Measures

The test uses a slow growth method to expose bacteria to amikacin over time. If bacteria grow in the presence of the antibiotic, it suggests resistance. If no growth occurs, it indicates sensitivity. This helps doctors choose the best antibiotic to treat your infection.

Why It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have a serious infection that could be caused by bacteria resistant to other antibiotics, or if amikacin is being considered as part of your treatment plan.

How the Test Works

A sample of your blood or other bodily fluid is mixed with a nutrient medium containing amikacin. Bacteria are allowed to grow slowly in the presence of the antibiotic. After incubation, the test determines whether bacteria can survive and grow, indicating resistance or sensitivity.

Sample Collection

A sterile sample of blood, urine, or other bodily fluid is collected by a healthcare professional. This sample is then sent to a lab for processing and testing.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Results guide antibiotic treatment decisions. High resistance rates may mean amikacin won’t work, prompting alternative treatments. Low resistance suggests amikacin could be effective, reducing risk of treatment failure or antibiotic resistance in the community.

Short name

Amikacin MIC (Slow Growth)

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive or Negative Result Mean?
A positive result (bacteria grow) means the bacteria are resistant to amikacin and may require a different antibiotic. A negative result (no growth) means the bacteria are sensitive and amikacin could be effective.
How Long Will Results Take?
Results typically take 3–5 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will contact you once results are available.
Can I Take Antibiotics Before This Test?
Yes, but inform your doctor immediately. Taking antibiotics before testing may affect results, as it could alter bacterial sensitivity patterns.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy