Editor's Note: As the autumn leaves turn red and the harvest fills the branches, the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Committee of Chinese Hospital Association held its 2024 Annual Conference (CCML 2024) from September 6-8 in Beijing. With the theme “Standards as the Foundation, Technology as the Engine, Promoting Microbiology Laboratory Construction,” the event featured presentations from renowned domestic experts in microbiology and infectious diseases. Topics included the latest advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases and the management of clinical microbiology laboratories, providing a platform for mutual learning and exchange for clinical physicians, pharmacists, and microbiology professionals. Infectious Diseases Frontier had the privilege of interviewing Dr. Qiwen Yang from Peking Union Medical College Hospital, chairman of the conference, who shared insights on the conference's highlights, the importance of the newly launched Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Testing Quality and Technical Management standards, and the significance of public education and professional development in rational antibiotic use and infectious disease diagnosis.1. Infectious Diseases Frontier: Could you give us an overview of the CCML conference’s background, history, and highlights this year?
Dr. Qiwen Yang: The CCML conference, organized by the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Committee of Chinese Hospital Association, focuses specifically on clinical microbiology and infectious diseases. Clinical microbiology laboratories play a crucial role in pathogen testing and diagnosis. However, the complexity of infectious diseases requires collaboration beyond microbiology, involving specialists in clinical infectious diseases, pharmacology, and infection control. The goal of CCML is to improve precision diagnostics and treatment by fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and advancing the quality control and technical progress of clinical microbiology laboratories. This year’s conference highlights this spirit of collaboration while also promoting public awareness of rational antibiotic use and precise diagnosis of infectious diseases.
2. Infectious Diseases Frontier: During this conference, the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Testing Quality and Technical Management standards were officially launched. Could you elaborate on the main content of this standard and its significance?
Dr. Qiwen Yang: These standards were developed under the leadership of Dr. Xiaoling Ma, chair of the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory Committee of Chinese Hospital Association, and approved by the Chinese Hospital Association. They focus on two key aspects: technical requirements, which define standardized and accurate procedures for clinical microbiology testing, and quality management, which offers comprehensive guidance on workflow management and quality improvement. This extensive set of standards—more than 40 in total—will play a crucial role in improving the overall quality of microbiology testing in clinical laboratories across China.
3. Infectious Diseases Frontier: Antimicrobial susceptibility breakpoints are critical in guiding clinical therapy. How do you view the current and future development of China’s antimicrobial susceptibility breakpoint system, from ChiCAST to the newly formed ChinaCAST?
Dr. Qiwen Yang: Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) is vital for the precise diagnosis of infections and the selection of appropriate antibiotics. Breakpoints are essential markers in this process, and their accuracy directly impacts clinical decisions on antimicrobial use. Historically, China has relied on foreign standards, such as those from CLSI (U.S.) and EUCAST (Europe). However, due to differences in genetic traits, pharmacokinetics, and resistance patterns among Chinese populations, adopting foreign standards directly often leads to suboptimal results. This has made it clear that establishing a localized breakpoint system is not only a consensus within the field but also a national need, as outlined in China’s National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance.
4.Infectious Diseases Frontier: During this conference, two major finals were held: the “National Antimicrobial Rational Use Popular Science Speech Contest” and the “Pathogenic Microorganism Precision Diagnosis Case Competition.” How do you view the importance of “public education” and “medical professional skill enhancement” in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases, as well as the rational use of antimicrobial drugs?
Dr. Qiwen Yang: This question touches on two core aspects of infectious disease prevention and antimicrobial rational use — public education and the professional skill development of healthcare workers. First, regarding “public education,” its importance cannot be overstated. While medicine is profound, infectious diseases are challenges that everyone may face at some point in their lives. Given our close connection with the microbial environment, it is essential for everyone to have a basic understanding of pathogens and the diseases they may cause. Events like the “National Antimicrobial Rational Use Popular Science Speech Contest” can significantly raise public awareness about pathogens, enhance their understanding of infectious disease prevention, and contribute to controlling infections at the source.
On the other hand, the “Pathogenic Microorganism Precision Diagnosis Case Competition” focuses on improving the professional skills of healthcare workers. By showcasing cases of precise diagnosis and treatment of complex infectious diseases, this competition provides frontline clinicians with valuable learning opportunities. It not only broadens their clinical horizons but also encourages deeper reflection and enhances clinical diagnostic and treatment thinking. The accumulation and sharing of such experiences will directly benefit more patients with infectious diseases and promote the overall improvement of medical standards.
In summary, “public education” and “medical professional skill enhancement” are indispensable components in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases and the rational use of antimicrobial drugs. These two aspects complement each other, forming a solid defense line for infection prevention and antimicrobial rational use. Through these two competitions, we hope to further improve public health literacy, enhance the expertise of healthcare professionals, and contribute to building a healthier China.
