Microbiology Department
Overview
Scientific researchers have determined that diseases in our bodies are closely linked to viruses and bacteria. Especially, current air and environmental pollution creates favorable conditions for the development of these harmful agents. This leads to the emergence of many new diseases with complex manifestations.
Medical microbiology is the field that studies microorganisms such as bacteria, protozoa, fungi, and other tiny organisms invisible to the naked eye. Through this, scientists develop new methods to prevent and treat diseases. For example, vaccines are the result of microbiology research. The Microbiology Department of the University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City primarily performs microbiological tests on request. In this way, doctors can accurately identify the disease a patient has and guide appropriate treatment methods, achieving high effectiveness.
The Microbiology Department operates under the motto “Accuracy - Reliability - Timeliness”. Throughout the examination process, from consultation, test ordering, receipt, specimen analysis to result reporting and utilization, both timing and quality are ensured.
Strength
With a highly qualified professional team, the Microbiology Department specializes in microbiology tests, rapidly detecting infectious diseases using molecular biology techniques, multi-pathogen diagnosis through:
Direct and cultured microbiology testing, identification, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, MIC of aerobic, anaerobic bacteria, H. pylori, …
Antimicrobial‑resistant bacteria testing: Gram‑negative bacilli producing β‑lactamase, ESBL (Extended Spectrum β‑lactamase), inducible AmpC β‑lactamase, carbapenemase; methicillin‑resistant Staphylococcus (MRSA); vancomycin‑resistant Enterococcus (VRE), …
In addition, the Microbiology Department also performs 2‑bottle blood cultures (aerobic and anaerobic) to increase the detection rate of bloodstream infections. Simultaneously, it monitors and surveils antimicrobial resistance.
Training & Research
The Microbiology Department of University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City continuously strengthens training and scientific research to enhance knowledge and professional expertise for its medical staff.
The department's staff are provided opportunities to attend training courses meeting hospital standards, specialized testing fields, or international association programs. Moreover, the Microbiology Department of University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City clearly demonstrates its School‑Institute strength. It serves as a practical training site for undergraduate and postgraduate students. Regularly organizes guidance sessions for undergraduate theses, master dissertations, doctoral theses, and annual continuous training courses oriented by the Microbiology Department. Simultaneously, it also serves as a practical training venue for microbiology laboratory personnel from other facilities.
The Microbiology Department has collaborated with numerous domestic and international organizations for training and scientific research, such as PATH, CDC, OUCRU. Additionally, the Microbiology Department and the Central Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology conduct antimicrobial resistance surveillance programs in Vietnam. In‑depth molecular analysis of antimicrobial‑resistant bacteria enhances treatment efficacy, prevents spread, and reduces the financial burden on families and society. At the same time, it elevates Vietnam's scientific research capacity to be on par with other countries in the field of advanced antimicrobial testing.
Equipments
The Microbiology Department of University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City possesses a modern microbiology testing equipment system with high accuracy to serve professional work.
Bactec FX automated blood culture system: Uses fluorescence technology to rapidly detect bacteria and fungi in clinical blood cultures. Utilizes media containing resin particles that neutralize antibiotics, allowing rapid bacterial growth, delivering accurate results within just 6 hours.
Bact/Alert VIRTUO automated blood culture system: Features automatic loading and unloading of blood culture bottles, improving incubation temperature stability, and achieving faster microorganism detection.
Automated identification and antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) system: Contributes to improving diagnostic quality and shortening result turnaround time.
Automated Gram staining machine: Assists in preliminary bacterial morphology assessment to guide and quickly identify the causative agent.
Automated acid-fast staining machine and automated mycobacterial culture machine: Facilitate smooth tuberculosis testing and provide accurate results.
Automated multiplex infectious disease diagnostic system using SHPT technology (FilmArray): a “new breakthrough” in microbiology testing. Not only detects pathogens but also identifies antimicrobial resistance genes much faster than traditional culture.
Other equipment such as fluorescence microscopes, colony counters, and sterile ring diameter measurement devices, etc.: Support the process of identifying causative agents and antibiotic susceptibility of various bacteria.
Staff
The Microbiology Department of University of Medicine and Pharmacy Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City operates under a School - Institute model, so the department's staff all have specialized professional qualifications. Each doctor is always ready, responding promptly and accurately to all patients' microbiology testing needs.