Use of MALDI-TOF MS in diagnostic microbiology for identification of species that conventional methods usually fail to identify

Abstract

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has been used in clinical diagnostic laboratories for the identification of microorganisms. It has a relevant advantage compared to other methods in terms of speed to provide results, being an alternative for addressing restrictions in clinical diagnosis as it may replace or complement existing identification techniques. This is especially important because some rare microorganisms would be identified only by higher cost techniques which are not widely available, such as genetic sequencing. Thus, the present paper reports two cases in which uncommon microorganisms were identified effectively and quickly.

Phenotypic characterization and whole genome analysis of a multidrug-resistant Corynebacterium glucuronolyticum strain isolated from genitourinary tract for the first time in Latin America

“…Genitourinary tract infections are a common cause of disease in the general population and are occasionally associated with complications, especially in patients with compromised immune systems . Recent evidence has been showing that many microorganisms considered part of the commensal microbiota of the genitourinary tract have been underestimated concerning their pathogenic role in these kinds of infections [11,12,22,23].…”

Identification of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi strain from a young Brazilian patient: the relevance of automated microbiological methods for the rapid diagnosis of systemic infections

“…Until recently, microbial identification occurred mainly by conventional phenotypic techniques or by gene sequencing, undergoing a revolution with the use of matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) which became decisive in the identification of unusual microorganisms in laboratory routine. It is also assumed a better assertiveness in identifying species that can be neglected using conventional techniques (12). Thus, given the possibility of non-detection, misidentification and clinical worsening, the present study aims to report a systemic infection by S. Typhi whose diagnosis was aided by the use of automated microbiological methods.…”