Optimization and Validation of an FTIR-based, All-in-one System for Viable MDR Bacteria Detection in Combat-related Wound Infection.

The article focuses on the development and validation of an improved Rapid Label-free Pathogen Identification (RAPID) system designed to detect viable multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in combat-related wound infections and perform antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST). The enhanced RAPID system incorporates multiplex and automation capabilities alongside a simplified sample preparation process using a disposable sample processing unit (SPU), enabling detection at bacterial concentrations of 10^4 to 10^6 cfu/mL. Validation with laboratory-prepared mono-strain samples, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) mouse model swabs, and human atopic dermatitis patient swabs demonstrated high accuracy in species identification and AST results compared to gold standard methods. The system shows promise as a rapid (≤3 hours), portable, and field-deployable diagnostic tool for frontline military medical use, with potential applications in civilian healthcare settings. Future work aims to ruggedize the system and assess its performance under relevant environmental conditions.