Gram stain culture

What does "Gram stain culture" mean in a report or doctor's letter? In our medical dictionary, you will find a patient-friendly explanation of the meaning of this medical term.

Explanation

A "Gram stain culture" is a test used by doctors to identify the type of bacteria causing an infection. It involves applying a special purple dye to a sample, such as mucus or blood. Under a microscope, some bacteria will retain the dye and appear purple (called 'Gram-positive'), while others will not and appear red (called 'Gram-negative'). This information helps doctors decide on the most effective treatment.

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