Mass Spectrometry in the Clinical Laboratory: Beyond Toxicology to Endocrinology and Microbiology
Abstract
Background: The clinical laboratory has witnessed a paradigm shift with the introduction of mass spectrometry (MS) into its activities, extending its role way beyond the traditional field of toxicology.
Aim: This review comprehensively discusses the revolutionizing impact of tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight (MALDI-TOF) MS on the diagnosis and management of human disease, particularly in endocrinology and microbiology.
Methods: Synthesis of concepts, applications, and relative advantages of these MS methods from the current literature between 2015 and 2024 was reviewed.
Results: Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) emerged as the gold standard in endocrinology with improved specificity for steroid, thyroid hormone, and vitamin measurement, thereby enabling accurate diagnosis of complex disorders. Meanwhile, MALDI-TOF MS has revolutionized clinical microbiology by providing quick, accurate, and cost-effective microbial identification, with an appreciable shortening of the time to effective antimicrobial therapy. Further, MS/MS remains the basis of newborn screening for congenital errors of metabolism. Despite challenges like standardization and cost, newer directions like mass spectrometry imaging and ambient ionization techniques promise further advancements.
Conclusion: The findings verify that MS/MS and MALDI-TOF MS lead the path of the modern clinical laboratory's commitment to deliver precise, individualized, and prompt patient treatment.
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References
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Copyright (c) 2025 Ali Saeed Abdullah Alzahrani, Hani Awied Aied Alharbi, Ali Abdullah Mohammed Alsaab, Yasir Ali Muhammad Al-Zahrani, Emad Ali Muhsin Alattas, Ahmed Abdullah Orepi, Ali Abdullah Alzahrani, Majed Abdulrahman Alrashidi, Mansour Butayhan Al Mabdi, Ali Ahmed Alomari Alzhrani
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