Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
tandem mass spectrometry
Pronunciation: TAN-dem mass spek-TOM-uh-tree
Laboratory technique using MS/MS technology to simultaneously screen for multiple metabolic disorders from a single blood spot.
Full Definition
Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) is an analytical technique that has revolutionized newborn screening by enabling detection of dozens of metabolic conditions from one dried blood spot. The technology separates and identifies metabolites based on their mass-to-charge ratios, allowing simultaneous screening for amino acid disorders, organic acidurias, and fatty acid oxidation defects. This multiplexing capability has dramatically expanded screening programs while maintaining cost-effectiveness.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MS/MS in technical contexts.
In Context
- "Tandem mass spectrometry results showed elevated C8 acylcarnitine suggesting a fatty acid oxidation disorder." — Laboratory report
- "Implementation of tandem mass spectrometry increased our screening panel from 6 to 29 conditions." — Program evaluation
Also known as
MS/MS
mass spec screening
Don't confuse with
standard mass spectrometry
chromatography