MALCA : AI Transforms Antibiogram Analysis into a Carbapenemase Detection Test 20 July 2026

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The team developed a machine learning tool (MALCA) capable of directly detecting carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales and identifying the type of carbapenemase with high accuracy using routine data from bacteriology laboratories (inhibition zone diameters obtained from diffusion susceptibility testing), thereby enabling the implementation of appropriate treatment without the need for additional testing.

Direct carbapenemase typing from disc diffusion antibiograms with MALCA (MAchine Learning CArbapenemase). Emeraud C, Benzerara Y, De Swardt H, Aubry A, Veziris N, Jousset AB, Rezzoug I, Latour L, Pages A, Ronsin S, Poignon C, Bonnin RA, Matondo M, Giai Gianetto Q, Dortet L, Godmer A.Nat Commun. 2026 May 11. doi: 10.1038/s41467-026-72713-0. Online ahead of print.PMID: 42115616