Test ID: TOBPK
Tobramycin, Peak, Serum
Useful For
Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful
Monitoring adequacy of serum concentration during tobramycin therapy
Clinical Information
Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test
Tobramycin is an antibiotic used to treat life-threatening blood infections caused by gram-negative bacilli, particularly Citrobacter freundii, Enterobacter (all species), Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Proteus mirabilis, Providencia stuartii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Serratia species. It is often used in combination with beta-lactam therapy.
A tobramycin minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of <4.0 mcg/mL is considered susceptible for gram-negative bacilli, while a MIC of >8.0 mcg/mL is considered resistant.
Toxicities include ototoxicity and nephrotoxicity. This risk is enhanced in presence of other ototoxic or nephrotoxic drugs. Monitoring of serum levels, renal function, and symptoms consistent with ototoxicity is important. For longer durations of use, audiology and vestibular testing should be considered at baseline and periodically during therapy.
Reference Values
Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.
5.0-12.0 mcg/mL
Interpretation
Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results
Target peak concentrations depend on the type of infection being treated. Peak levels for most infections using conventional dosing are 5.0 to 12.0 mcg/mL. Prolonged exposure to peak concentrations exceeding 12.0 mcg/mL may lead to toxicity.
Cautions
Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances
No significant cautionary statements.
Clinical Reference
Provides recommendations for further in-depth reading of a clinical nature
1. Hammett-Stabler CA, Johns T: Laboratory guidelines for monitoring of antimicrobial drugs. Clin Chem 1998;44(5):1129-1140
2. Moyer TP: Therapeutic drug monitoring. In Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry, Fourth edition. Edited by CA Burtis, ER Ashwood, Philadelphia, WB Saunders Company, 2006
3. Wilson JW, Estes LL: Mayo Clinic Antimicrobial Therapy Quick Guide. Mayo Clinic Scientific Press and Informa Healthcare USA, 2008


