Abstract:

The automation of clinical microbiology laboratory has become more and more available with the development of technology of clinical microbiology, especially the application of the matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) and liquid-based microbiology specimen transport system. A successful automation system requires flexibility in the design, which can liberate the personnel of laboratory from some tasks that can be done by the instruments, thereby improving the efficiency of specimen process and reducing the waste of resources. Currently, there are three parts of automation system applied in the clinical microbiology laboratory. The first one is the specimen processor system. The second one is the solution system offering full microbiology laboratory automation, including various modules for attaining diverse automation degree. The third one is the automatic bacteria identification/antimicrobial susceptibility testing system. Nowadays, the detection process of clinical microbiology has entered the era of innovation. Although a lot of assessment works remains to be done, the microbe automatic system will have a profound impact on improving the work standard and technology of clinical microbiology laboratories.

Key words: Clinical Microbiology, Laboratory, Automation