Rapid detection of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae by real-time analysis of volatile metabolites

Early detection of pathogenic bacteria is needed for rapid diagnostics allowing adequate and timely treatment of infections. In this study, we show that secondary electrospray ionization–high resolution mass spectrometry (SESI-HRMS) can be used as a diagnostic tool for rapid detection of bacterial infections as a supportive system for current state-of-the-art diagnostics. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) produced by growing S. aureus or S. pneumoniae cultures on blood agar plates were detected within minutes and allowed for the distinction of these two bacteria on a species and even strain level within hours. Furthermore, we obtained a fingerprint of clinical patient samples within minutes of measurement and predominantly observed a separation of samples containing live bacteria compared to samples with no bacterial growth. Further development of this technique may reduce the time required for microbiological diagnosis and should help to improve patient’s tailored treatment.