Sensitive Detection of Salmonella Susceptibility to Ceftriaxone and Azithromycin Using Matrix‐Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization Time‐of‐Flight Mass Spectrometry

Background The rising incidence of Salmonella‐induced diarrhea highlights the critical need for judicious antibiotic use to ensure effective treatment outcomes. Methods This study presents an innovative methodology for evaluating the susceptibility of Salmonella to ceftriaxone and azithromycin through the application of matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. Results The proposed method requires only 2–3 individual Salmonella colonies and yields results within approximately 1 hour, assessing susceptibility to ceftriaxone (70 mg/L) and azithromycin (25 mg/L). In comparison to the Kirby‐Bauer method, this technique exhibits a sensitivity of 98.64% and a specificity of 84.38%. Conclusions The method developed in this study is both straightforward and user‐friendly, making it suitable for deployment in major laboratories equipped with time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. It offers a preliminary assessment of Salmonella susceptibility to ceftriaxone and azithromycin, thereby enhancing the accuracy of clinical interventions for Salmonella infections.