Guideline for the planning of studies to determine the antimicrobial resistance of infectious agents of veterinary relevance

This paper describes the most important criteria for the planning of statis tically sound and representative studies on the prevalence of antimicrobial resistance among pathogenic bacteria from animals. The statistical design of the study is of particular importance and therefore described in some de tail. The existing published data about antimicrobial resistance are mostly retrospective summaries of results and do not give a true picture of the r esistance situation. The authors propose to conduct a pilot study initially because many basic elements for a sound study design are still not known. The systematic recording and assessment of the target variables including t he necessary quality assurance are an important prerequisite. Moreover, pot ential cause variables can be further narrowed down and conclusively identi fied. To ensure the representativity of the cross-sectional study and avoid potential bias, it is important to achieve the highest possible response r ate. This will form the basis of a scientifically sound resistance monitori ng programme which should be the joint responsibility of regulatory authori ties, industry and academia.