MALDI-TOF MS experience with the identification of complex microorganisms using two devices in a National Reference Laboratory

This work detailed a matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) experience with the identification of a large set of complex microorganisms using two devices in the settings of a National Reference Laboratory. In Argentina, we coordinate the national network of mass spectrometry (MS), an extended work group formed in year 2015 that includes all public and private laboratories that have incorporated the technology as a diagnostic tool through the different commercial platforms available on the market. At this time, as a National Reference Laboratory, we conducted this comprehensive assessment of MALDI-TOF MS performance for the identification of diverse bacteria, specifically targeting pathogens of significant public health concern. During investigation, we identified certain limitations inherent to the methodology and the results obtained have considerable impact that must be transferred to the users of MS platforms in clinical laboratories all over the world.