Description
Gram staining is an empirical method and a common procedure in the traditional bacteriological laboratory used for differentiating bacterial species into two large groups (Gram-positive and Gram-negative) as a first step to determine the identity of a particular bacterial sample based on the chemical and physical properties of their cell walls.
Indications
Gram stains are performed on body fluid or biopsy when infection is suspected. It yields results much more quickly than culture, and is especially important when infection would make an important difference in the patient’s treatment and prognosis; examples are cerebrospinal fluid for meningitis and synovial fluid for septic arthritis.
Sample Type, Quantity & Conditions
Smear or swab from corresponding site Room Temperature
Special Precautions
Use the same specimens as those for routine bacterial culture of corresponding sites.
Normal Range
By Report
