VITEK^® MS: First MALDI-TOF system with IVD-CE marked ID of mycobacteria, Nocardia & moulds*

The latest VITEK^® MS software update includes a database for the identification of mycobacteria, Nocardia and moulds* – making it the first MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry) to include IVD-CE marking for these clinically important species. Inactivation and extraction reagent kits are also now available to make rapid testing safe and easy. MALDI-TOF MS technology enables clear and accurate identification at the species, group, or genus level in minutes. The VITEK^® MS system has long been capable of reliably identifying numerous bacteria and yeasts for aiding in clinical diagnosis, and rapid identification of mycobacteria¹, Nocardiaand moulds is an important expansion. Timely identification of these organisms helps improve management of diseases such as serious fungal infections, tuberculosis, and osteomyelitis caused by non-tuberculosis mycobacteria (NTM). These new species are part of a comprehensive update that expands the VITEK^® MS database to 1,046 species and 15,172 distinct strains of bacteria, yeasts and moulds. New in the database are:

• 39 mycobacteria taxa comprised of 48 species
• 14 Nocardia species
• 47 mould taxa comprised of 48 species
• 197 other new bacteria and yeasts

A market-leading MALDI-TOF MS system, VITEK^® MS has a unique algorithm (Advanced Spectra Classifier) to provide excellent discrimination between species. With over 15,000 strains, the database also accounts for diversity within a species for greater accuracy, without requiring manipulation of result scores to obtain species identification². Together, VITEK^® MS and VITEK^® 2 provide the flexibility to optimize laboratory workflow and ensure rapid results, supporting appropriate antimicrobial treatment and antimicrobial stewardship. VITEK^®solutions offer rapid, accurate results – whether for routine diagnoses, unusual/resistant organisms, or critical clinical situations.

*Database is IVD-CE marked. FDA clearance pending. Not currently available in the US.

1. Mather, C.A., et. al. Comparison of the Bruker Biotyper and Vitek MS Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization–Time of Flight Mass Spectrometry Systems for Identification of Mycobacteria Using Simplified Protein Extraction Protocols. J. Clin. Microbiol. 2014, 52(1):130.

2. Pence M.A., et. al. Comparison and optimization of two MALDI-TOF MS platforms for the identification of medically relevant yeast species. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis, 2014 ; 33(10):1703.