Figure 4: Validation of MALDI TOF MS results in microbiological diagnostics. 2,900 samples were examined by methods used for routine analysis (e.g. API system) and by MALDI TOF MS. Mismatching results were subsequently examined by the Phoenix system (41 strains) and by 16S rDNA gene sequencing (35 of 41 strains). For 28 samples no feasible results were obtained by MALDI TOF MS analysis.