MALDI-TOF: MS Yeast Identification Test
Short Name: MALDI-TOF Yeast ID
Also known as: MALDI-TOF Mass Spectrometry Yeast Identification, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization Time-of-Flight Yeast ID, Yeast Species Identification by Mass Spectrometry, MALDI-TOF MS Fungal Identification
MALDI-TOF: MS Yeast Identification Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,229. Uses MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry) on Pure growth of yeast on a solid agar plate samples. Results in Sample received by 9 am daily; report available the same day.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the MALDI-TOF: MS Yeast Identification Test is to accurately identify the species of yeast isolated from a clinical sample. Species-level identification is essential because different yeast species exhibit varying susceptibility patterns to antifungal medications. For instance, some species may be inherently resistant to commonly used azole antifungals, necessitating the use of alternative agents such as echinocandins or amphotericin B. This test helps clinicians select the most appropriate antifungal treatment, reduce the risk of treatment failure, and prevent the emergence of drug-resistant strains.
- Test Code
- 1205
- CPT Code
- 87106
- ICD Code
- B37
- Price
- ₹1,229
- Sample Type
- Pure growth of yeast on a solid agar plate
- Result Time
- Sample received by 9 am daily; report available the same day.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- MALDI-TOF MS (Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry)
Sample Collection
No special preparation is required from the patient. The test is performed on a yeast colony already cultured in the laboratory. If a fresh sample is being collected (e.g., vaginal swab), avoid douching, using vaginal creams, or taking antifungal medication for at least 48 hours prior to sample collection unless directed otherwise by your physician.
Method: Colony picked from culture plate by laboratory personnel
Laboratory Analysis
The laboratory technician will pick a pure colony of yeast from the culture plate using a sterile loop or applicator. The colony is then applied to the MALDI-TOF target plate, overlaid with a matrix solution, and inserted into the mass spectrometer for analysis. The process is non-invasive when performed on a cultured isolate.
Report Delivery
No specific post-collection care is required. Results are typically available the same day and will be accessible through the DNA Labs India online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Timeline: Sample received by 9 am daily; report available the same day.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the MALDI-TOF: MS Yeast Identification Test is to accurately identify the species of yeast isolated from a clinical sample. Species-level identification is essential because different yeast species exhibit varying susceptibility patterns to antifungal medications. For instance, some species may be inherently resistant to commonly used azole antifungals, necessitating the use of alternative agents such as echinocandins or amphotericin B. This test helps clinicians select the most appropriate antifungal treatment, reduce the risk of treatment failure, and prevent the emergence of drug-resistant strains.
How to Prepare
- Submit a pure growth of yeast on a solid agar plate to the laboratory
- Ship the sample refrigerated at 2–8°C
- Do not freeze the sample
- Label the sample correctly with patient details and date of collection
- Ensure the culture plate is sealed to prevent contamination during transport
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Accurate species-level identification of yeast isolates is critical for guiding appropriate antifungal therapy. MALDI-TOF MS has revolutionized mycological diagnostics by providing rapid and reliable identification, often within minutes, compared to conventional biochemical methods that may take days. This is particularly important for species such as Candida auris, which exhibits multidrug resistance and requires prompt clinical intervention."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Mixed or contaminated cultures without isolated colonies
- Non-viable or dried-out culture plates
- Samples that have been frozen
- Improperly labeled or unlabeled samples
- Samples exceeding the stability period of 48 hours refrigerated
Understanding Your Results
Candida albicans identified
High
Non-albicans Candida species (e.g., C. glabrata, C. krusei, C. tropicalis)
High
Candida auris identified
Critical
Rare yeast species identified
Moderate to High
No identification / Low confidence score
Indeterminate
Consult your doctor if you are experiencing symptoms of a yeast infection such as persistent itching, burning, unusual discharge, or if a previous yeast infection has not responded to standard treatment. If you are immunocompromised or have been hospitalized recently, seek medical attention promptly for any signs of fungal infection. If your test identifies Candida auris or a multidrug-resistant species, urgent specialist consultation is advised.
Limitations
- ⚠This test requires a pure culture of yeast grown on a solid agar plate; it cannot be performed directly on clinical specimens
- ⚠Certain rare or novel yeast species may not be present in the database and may not be identified
- ⚠MALDI-TOF MS does not provide antifungal susceptibility data; a separate susceptibility test may be required
- ⚠Mixed yeast infections may require subculture and individual colony testing for accurate results
Risks & Considerations
- ●This test is performed on a cultured isolate and carries no direct risk to the patient
- ●If the initial specimen collection involves a swab, minor discomfort may occur during sample collection
- ●There is no risk of allergic reaction, radiation exposure, or invasive procedure associated with MALDI-TOF MS analysis
Interfering Factors
- ●Mixed cultures containing more than one yeast species may produce ambiguous spectra
- ●Insufficient or non-viable colony growth on the agar plate
- ●Contamination of the sample with bacteria or other microorganisms
- ●Yeast species not included in the reference database may return an indeterminate result
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | MALDI-TOF: MS Yeast Identification Test | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | MALDI-TOF: MS Yeast Identification Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the MALDI-TOF: MS Yeast Identification Test?
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What sample is required for this test?
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Why is species-level identification of yeast important?
Can this test detect Candida auris?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
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Can this test replace a fungal culture?
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