What is zone of inhibition?

The zone of inhibition is a clear area surrounding an antimicrobial disc on a culture plate that indicates the effectiveness of an antimicrobial agent against a particular pathogen. It is used in laboratory testing to measure the susceptibility of bacteria to antibiotics or other antimicrobial substances.

The size of the zone of inhibition can vary depending on the strength of the antimicrobial agent and the susceptibility of the bacteria being tested. A larger zone of inhibition indicates that the bacteria are more sensitive to the antimicrobial agent, while a smaller or absent zone of inhibition may indicate resistance.

Zone of inhibition tests are often used to determine the most appropriate antibiotic therapy for treating bacterial infections, as well as to monitor the development of antibiotic resistance in bacterial populations. This information is crucial for guiding clinical treatment decisions and preventing the spread of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.