CPT® Code 87197

1. Indications

The Serum Bactericidal Titer (Schlichter test) is indicated for the following conditions:

• Assessment of Antibiotic Efficacy This test is performed to evaluate the effectiveness of specific antibiotics in the blood serum against identified bacterial infections.
• Monitoring Treatment Response It is used to monitor the response to antibiotic therapy in patients with severe or complicated infections.
• Determining Bacterial Resistance The test helps in identifying potential bacterial resistance to antibiotics, guiding adjustments in treatment regimens.

2. Procedure

The procedure for conducting the Serum Bactericidal Titer (Schlichter test) involves several key steps to ensure accurate results.

• Step 1: Sample Collection A blood sample is collected from the patient, typically through venipuncture. This sample will be processed to obtain serum, which is necessary for the test.
• Step 2: Serum Preparation The collected blood sample is allowed to clot, and then it is centrifuged to separate the serum from the cellular components. The serum is then carefully extracted for testing.
• Step 3: Bacterial Culture A culture of the specific bacteria suspected of causing the infection is prepared. This involves inoculating a suitable growth medium with the bacteria to allow for their proliferation.
• Step 4: Antibiotic Exposure The prepared serum is then mixed with the bacterial culture and exposed to various concentrations of the antibiotic being tested. This step is crucial for determining the bactericidal activity of the serum.
• Step 5: Incubation The mixture is incubated under controlled conditions to allow for bacterial growth and interaction with the antibiotics present in the serum.
• Step 6: Evaluation of Results After the incubation period, the results are evaluated by assessing the degree of bacterial growth. A reduction in bacterial growth indicates effective bactericidal activity of the serum against the bacteria.

3. Post-Procedure

After the Serum Bactericidal Titer (Schlichter test) is completed, the healthcare provider will review the results to determine the effectiveness of the antibiotic therapy. Depending on the findings, adjustments to the treatment plan may be necessary. Patients may be monitored for any adverse reactions to the antibiotics, and follow-up testing may be scheduled to reassess the efficacy of the treatment. It is important for healthcare providers to communicate the results to the patient and discuss any changes in their antibiotic regimen based on the test outcomes.