bioMérieux Vitek MS – Rapid and reliable microbiological identification by MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry
bioMérieux's Vitek MS is a mass spectrometry system based on MALDI-TOF (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation – Time of Flight) technology, designed to provide rapid, reliable and reproducible identification of microorganisms. Thanks to its high-performance architecture and seamless integration into laboratory workflows, it meets the growing need for accurate microbiological diagnostics.
The system works by ionising the proteins present in the sample to generate a spectrum characteristic of each organism. This spectrum is then compared to an extremely rich internal database, comprising more than 15,000 strains and approximately 12 profiles per species, ensuring a high level of accuracy. The entire process, from sample preparation to obtaining the result, is designed to be simple, fast and safe.
Sample preparation is simplified thanks to an accessible spotting protocol, requiring only the application of the appropriate matrix to the target. Common bacteria and yeasts do not require additional extraction, while mycobacteria, nocardia and moulds benefit from a reliable inactivation protocol ensuring safe handling. Once prepared, the targets are inserted into the sample holder, which can accommodate up to four slides and 48 spots each , allowing up to 192 isolates to be processed per run.
Vitek MS stands out for its ability to provide identifications in minutes, giving clinicians valuable diagnostic information quickly. Combined with antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) systems such as VITEK 2 and data management tools such as MYLA, it is a central pillar in integrated microbiological diagnostic strategies. This speed facilitates the initiation of targeted treatments earlier, helping to reduce hospital stays and optimise the use of antimicrobials.
The reliability of the system is also based on a regularly updated and validated database, including clinically important species such as Brucella spp., Candida auris and Elizabethkingia anophelis. It is also the first MALDI-TOF system approved by the FDA for the identification of mycobacteria, nocardia and moulds. Performance achieves an overall correct identification rate of 95.4%, with even higher results for certain categories, such as 96.5% for mycobacteria and 92.7% for moulds on reference strains.
The software is designed for ease of use, optimising traceability and results management. With the FLEXPREP feature, target preparation and management can be carried out from any workstation connected to the laboratory network. Traceability information covers operators, reagent batches and preparation parameters, which enhances the quality of analyses and facilitates audits. The software also allows uncertain results to be automatically sent to the SARAMIS database for further analysis, ensuring continuous quality control.
Integration into the laboratory workflow is facilitated by compatibility with the MYLA system, which offers data centralisation and real-time visualisation of microbiology activities. Results can be automatically transmitted to the laboratory information system (LIS), with the option of setting up auto-validation for certain high-confidence identifications.
bioMérieux's Vitek MS combines speed, reliability and safety in microbiological identification. Its ability to integrate seamlessly with other diagnostic solutions, its comprehensive database and its optimised ergonomics make it the tool of choice for laboratories seeking to improve clinical responsiveness and the relevance of therapeutic decisions.
