Skip to content

Enterobacterales ESBL and VRE Resistance Panel

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

Detects antibiotic-resistance mechanisms, including extended-spectrum beta-lactamase and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus, in a submitted specimen.

Quick summary

["Positive results show that the bacteria found may resist certain important antibiotics."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
100912-5
Short code
Enterob ESBL & VRE panel
Synonyms
Enterob ESBL & VRE panel
Category
tumor-marker
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
organism-specific-culture
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 is this test?

This panel checks a submitted specimen for specific antibiotic-resistance mechanisms. These include extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), which can make certain Enterobacterales bacteria resistant to many beta-lactam antibiotics, and vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus (VRE).

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when bacterial infection is suspected, especially if initial treatment is not working or there is concern about antibiotic-resistant organisms. The results can help guide antibiotic selection and infection-control precautions.

How is the test performed?

A laboratory examines the submitted specimen or a bacterium isolated from it using validated testing for ESBL and VRE. The exact specimen and testing method depend on the laboratory and the infection being evaluated.

How do I prepare for the test?

Collection instructions vary by specimen and test. Follow the container, timing, and storage directions provided by the healthcare facility, and ask the laboratory if you are unsure. Do not start, stop, or delay prescribed antibiotics unless your clinician instructs you to do so.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

ESBL/VRE resistance panel

Frequently asked questions

Does a positive result mean I have a resistant infection?
Not necessarily. Resistant bacteria may be causing an infection or may simply be present in a specimen without causing illness, so the result must be interpreted with the clinical situation.
Why are ESBL and VRE tested together?
Both are important antibiotic-resistance findings, but they involve different bacterial groups. ESBL primarily concerns Enterobacterales, while VRE concerns Enterococcus.
Will this test determine which antibiotic I should take?
It can provide important resistance information, but the clinician must consider the type of infection, other laboratory results, allergies, and the patient's overall health before choosing treatment.
  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