ETFD is very rapid compared to the classical microbiological cultivation giving results in minutes to hours compared to after several days of incubation with cultivation. The ability of ETFD to target different taxonomical groups makes it possible to measure bacteria or to measure fungi with only minor interferences as compared to an older rapid technology known as the ATP test. This test measures ATP (Adenosine triphosphate) which is present in all living cells, and exudates. The ATP is therefore, more like a general measure of the biological load and cannot be used as a specific measure of bacteria or fungi.
