Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight intact cell mass spectrometry to detect emerging pathogenic Candida species.

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight intact cell mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-ICMS) was used to differentiate pathogenic Candida species, difficult to identify by traditional methods such as growth and biochemical reactions. Results showed that species complexes like C. parapsilosis, C. orthopsilosis, and C. metapsilsosis, and very closely related species like C. glabrata and C. bracarensis, and C. albicans and C. dubliniensis could be clearly separated. MALDI-TOF-ICMS stands out as a promising tool for the rapid detection of emerging pathogens.