Direct Identification of Pathogens in Urine by Use of a Specific Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Spectrum Database

Abstract

Urinary tract infections are among the most common reasons for antimicrobial treatment, and early diagnosis could have a significant impact by enabling rapid administration of the adapted antibiotic and preventing complications. The current delay between sample receipt and pathogen identification is about 24 to 48 h, which could be significantly shortened by use of an accurate direct method.