Objective:

To compare the phenotypic test for detection of carbapenemases (Three-dimensional Test - THT), with molecular biology test (Multiplex PCR), for the detection of resistance genes.

Methods:

A total of 118 isolates of Gram-negative bacteria strains from the multiresistant surveillance program at a third-level hospital were evaluated for the detection of carbapenemases by three-dimensional test (THT) and the molecular biology PCR Multiple method . We calculated sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV, validity index and Youden index (IY), with their confidence intervals.

Results:

THT test compared to the multiple PCR test had a sensitivity of 98.41% (95% CI 94.53 - 100), specificity was 83.64% (95% CI 72.95 - 94 , 32) and positive and negative predictive values were respectively 87.32 (95% CI 78.88 - 95.77) and 97.87 (95% CI 92.68 - 100).

Conclusion:

The Hodge three-dimensional test (THT), for detection of carbapenem resistance, may be a useful routine laboratory test to suggest resistance by carbapenemases.

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