Identification of species isolated from vulvovaginitis using matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry.

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

Vulvovaginal candidiasis (VVC) is a common problem in women. The purpose of this study was to identify isolates by matrix assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) from women with vulvovaginitis that were referred to Ghaem Hospital, Mashhad, Iran.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted on 65 clinical samples isolated from women that were referred to Ghaem Hospital. All specimens were identified using phenotyping techniques, such as microscopy and culture on Sabouraud dextrose agar and corn meal agar. In addition, all isolates were processed for MALDI-TOF MS identification.

RESULTS

Out of the 65 analyzed isolates, 61 (94%) samples were recognized by MALDI-TOF MS. However, the remaining four isolates (6%) had no reliable identification. According to the results, (58.5%) was the most frequently isolated species, followed by (16.9%), (7.7%), (7.7%), and (3.1%).

CONCLUSION

As the findings indicated, MALDI TOF MS was successful in the identification of clinical species. was identified as the most common species isolated from the women with VVC. Moreover, was the most common species among the non- species.