From growth to identification
Identification asks what a recovered isolate is. Vanguard’s microbiology menu includes MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry and 16S/ITS sequencing pathways, with the approach selected for the organism and project.
Define the starting material
Tell us whether growth was recovered during product testing, environmental monitoring or a sterility test. Identify the original sample and any laboratory reference. Coordinate isolate acceptance and transport before shipping.
What the result can support
An identity can help distinguish repeated findings and narrow an investigation. The achievable identification level depends on the isolate and method; the request should state what resolution is needed.
What it does not establish
An identification alone does not prove a contamination source, demonstrate relatedness between all isolates or establish clinical significance. Those are separate questions requiring an appropriate study design.
Related testing & guidance
Technical & service references
Vanguard microbiology service menuFDA: Bacteriological Analytical ManualUSP: General Chapter <61>Source review: November 8, 2026. The agreed method and project scope govern the testing.