Implementation of MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry in microbiology laboratories: what changes for clinicians?

Abstract

Mass spectrometry (MS) has emerged as a particularly powerful tool for analysis and characterization of proteins in research for twenty years. More recently, matrix assisted laser desorption/ionisation time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS) has been introduced in clinical laboratories for routine identification. This method is reliable and safe for the identification of bacteria, yeasts, filamentous fungi, and dermatophytes isolated from clinical samples by intact cell mass spectrometry or directly from positive blood culture or urines. Other applications are currently in development, including bacterial typing, detection of antibiotic resistance, and identification of virulent strains.