Final answer:
In the field of microbiology, bacterial strains are identified using methods such as detection of antibodies in blood and using biochemical test panels like the API panel. Antibiotics are prescribed based on the susceptibility of the pathogens to different antibiotics, and various diagnostic methods, including culture and DNA testing, are used to confirm the presence of bacteria.
Step-by-step explanation:
The process of detecting and identifying bacterial strains is a critical aspect of microbiology. Often, this includes detection of bacteria through various techniques and testing panels. Breath tests, detection of antibodies in blood, and stool sample examinations are common non-invasive methods for this purpose. In clinical settings, medical professionals may rely on biochemical test panels like the Analytical Profile Index (API) panel to identify microorganisms. For instance, an API 20NE test strip can be utilized to recognize specific strains of gram-negative bacteria outside the Enterobacteriaceae family. Following the initial laboratory characterization, such as determining the strain's Gram morphology, an appropriate test strip containing multiple biochemical tests can rapidly differentiate strains within a microbial group.
When it comes to treating infections, doctors consider the patterns of susceptibility of various pathogens to different antibiotics. For example, different antibiotics would be prescribed to treat infections caused by E. coli, S. aureus, and P. aeruginosa, based on the specific bacteria involved and its known resistance patterns.
Hit-by-hit, diagnostic methods in microbiology involve a combination of clinical examination, culture, serology tests like ELISA, and in certain cases, more advanced techniques such as DNA testing or Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR). Knowing how to perform and interpret these tests accurately is crucial for medical professionals in diagnosing and treating bacterial infections.