THE ETEST(R) - AN ALTERNATIVE TO THE NCCL S STANDARD FOR SUSCEPTIBILITY TESTING OF YEASTS

The Etest(R) and the NCCLS method are not much differing in respect to their reproducibility. Only single observations exist on the clinical correlation of both tests. The correlation between both tests are kno wn as being dependent on the yeast species and antifungals used. Due t o the easy and simple handling the Etest(R) is attractive for routine laboratories. The Etest(R) has to be more evaluated before it can be g enerally recommended. The NCCLS method also is not validated until now . Different test methods should be compared thoroughly with the above mentioned standard.