Performance of MALDI–TOF Mass Spectrometry in the Philippines

Identification of the causative pathogen in infectious diseases is important for surveillance and to guide treatment. In low- middle-income countries (LMIC), conventional culture identification methods, including biochemical are reference-standard. Biochemical methods can lack sensitivity specificity have slow turnaround times, causing delays definitive therapy. Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time flight mass spectrometry (MALDI–TOF MS) a rapid accurate diagnostic method. Most studies comparing MALDI–TOF MS from high-income countries, with few reports LMIC tropical climates. The aim this study was assess performance compared Philippines. Clinical bacterial or fungal isolates were identified by both automated (VITEK2) manual San Lazaro Hospital, Metro Manila, concordance between analyzed at species genus levels. total, 3530 analyzed. rate 96.2% level 99.9% level. Twenty-three could not be MS. setting, Additionally, improved results. These advantages lead infection management control even though initial cost high.