When the Lab Becomes Fully Automated

The automation of microbiology lab procedures has lagged behind other disciplines

Now, a fully automated sample processing system may replace the time-consuming and error-prone steps used to culture samples to identify disease agents, procedures used since the time of Robert Koch in the 19th century. Currently being tested at a hospital in Germany, the system purports to be faster and more accurate than manual sample handling. Every step is automated and digitized, from identifying and sampling test tube contents to plate streaking and monitoring, and creating high-resolution images for review. This allows technicians and physicians to spend more time on interpretation and counseling.