MALDI-TOF MS Indirect Beta-Lactamase Detection in Ampicillin-Resistant Haemophilus influenzae

Rapid identification of beta-lactamase-producing strains of Haemophilus influenzae plays key role in diagnostics in clinical microbiology. Therefore, the aim of this study was the rapid determination of beta-lactamase’s presence in H. influenzae isolates via indirect detection of degradation ampicillin products using MALDI-TOF MS. H. influenzae isolates were subjected to antibiotic resistance testing using disk diffusion and MIC methodologies. Beta-lactamase activity was tested using MALDI-TOF MS, and results were compared to spectral analysis of alkaline hydrolysis. Resistant and susceptible strains of H. influenzae were distinguished, and strains with a high MIC level were identified as beta-lactamase-producing. Results indicate that MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry is also suitable for the rapid identification of beta-lactamase-producing H. influenzae. This observation and confirmation can accelerate identification of beta-lactamase strains of H. influenzae in clinical microbiology, which can have an impact on health in general.