Bacterial Taxonomy Translation Guide

Matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) proteomic identification tools enable the precise identification of many cultured bacterial taxa.

In some situations, it is appropriate to translate the identified bacterium into a clinically useful synonym. The guidelines below describe the nomenclature translation strategy used by Cleveland Clinic.  This translation table is not exhaustive. Local laboratory protocols should be consulted when ruling out select agents and making nomenclature decisions.

Use the table search function to find a specific bacteria or download this information onto your own device.

Table data was last updated in January 2025.