Can Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) Enhance Antimicrobial Stewardship Efforts in the Acute Care Setting?

We evaluated 222 hospitalized patients whose clinical isolates were tested using standard methods and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF). MALDI-TOF could have reduced time to appropriate therapy for 28.8% and 44.6% patients based on the treating physician's choices and stewardship team recommendations, respectively. Clinicians should be aware of scenarios in which MALDI-TOF can optimize antibiotic therapy.