Advanced
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
tandem mass spectrometry
Laboratory technique used to analyze multiple metabolites in dried blood spots.
Full Definition
Tandem mass spectrometry is an analytical technique that uses two or more mass analyzers in sequence to identify and quantify specific molecules in biological samples. In newborn screening, this technology allows simultaneous analysis of dozens of metabolites from a single dried blood spot, enabling detection of amino acid disorders, organic acid disorders, and fatty acid oxidation defects. The method provides high specificity and sensitivity for detecting metabolic conditions.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as MS/MS after first reference.
In Context
- "Tandem mass spectrometry analysis revealed elevated C8 acylcarnitine levels." — laboratory report
- "The laboratory upgraded to tandem mass spectrometry to expand their screening panel." — program update
Also known as
MS/MS
Don't confuse with
mass spectrometry
liquid chromatography