Gram Stain Test

What is Gram Stain Test

Gram Stain Test is a medical test to determine whether you have a bacterial or fungal infection. A gram stain can help identify a variety of infections, including:

  • Infected skin sores.
  • Sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Swollen joints.
  • Intestinal problems.
  • Infections of the heart or lungs.

This test requires a sample of bodily fluid. Depending on the type of infection you may have, your health care provider may use:

  • Urine.
  • Pus.
  • Fecal matter.
  • Fluid from your lungs.
  • Fluid from a joint.

Sometimes your health care provider uses a small tissue sample to do the test.

In the laboratory, a technician smears a small amount of the sample on a slide and adds different stains. Then the sample is checked under a microscope. Different bacteria or fungi have different sizes, shapes, and colors. This helps the health care provider identify the infection.

A gram stain is often the first test you have to determine what kind of infection you have and how bad it is. You may also have other tests along with a gram stain. Your health care provider uses the results of these tests, as well as your signs and symptoms, to diagnose and treat your illness.

How do I prepare for this test?

Ask your health care provider for any specific instructions before the test. Depending on the kind of fluid or tissue sample that will be used, preparation may be required.

What do the results mean?

It is your responsibility to obtain your test results. Ask the lab or department performing the test when and how you will get your results. Contact your health care provider to discuss any questions you have about your results.

The results of a gram stain test will either be positive or negative. The results strongly indicate whether you have a bacterial or fungal infection.

Meaning of Negative Test Results

If your gram stain test is negative, it most likely means that you do not have a bacterial or fungal infection. It could also mean that no bacteria or fungus were found in your sample at the time of the test. It could also mean there were too few bacteria to see under the microscope.

Meaning of Positive Test Results

A positive gram stain indicates that you have a bacterial or fungal infection. This test result can also give your health care provider information about the type and severity of your infection.

Talk with your health care provider to discuss your results, treatment options, and if necessary, the need for more tests. Talk with your health care provider if you have any questions about your results.

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