Point-Counterpoint: Cascade reporting-useful tool to support antimicrobial stewardship, or dangerously misleading.

Abstract

Addressing antimicrobial resistance requires multi-disciplinary action, including from the clinical laboratory. Cascade reporting of the antimicrobial susceptibility test (AST) is a strategy used by some laboratories to nudge clinicians toward the use of more narrow-spectrum antimicrobials. Cascade reporting involves suppression of broader-spectrum antimicrobials if the narrower-spectrum first-line antimicrobials show in-vitro susceptibility. Studies have shown that cascade reporting can reduce use of broad-spectrum antimicrobials and reduce antimicrobial resistance rates. However, implementing cascade reporting can be complex, and some question the effectiveness on impacting long-term prescribing behaviors. Furthermore, there are concerns surrounding compliance and the possible negative impact on public health surveillance for antimicrobial resistance. In this article, experts weigh in on the benefits and risks associated with implementing AST cascade reporting. General consensus is that cascade reporting is a benefit to antimicrobial stewardship, but protocols need careful implementation to minimize risk to patients and public health.