Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization-Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry for Use with Positive Blood Cultures: Methodology, Performance, and Optimization

Abstract

Early initiation of effective antibiotics for septic patients is essential for patient survival. Matrix-assisted desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) has revolutionized clinical microbiology for isolate identification and has the possibility to impact how blood culture testing is performed. This review discusses the various uses of MALDI-TOF MS for the identification and susceptibility testing of positive blood cultures, the performance of these methods, and the outcomes involved with its implementation.

Keywords: MALDI-TOF MS; antimicrobial susceptibilities; bacterial identification; blood culture; diagnostics.