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Gram stain of urethral discharge
Gram stain of urethral discharge

Gram stain of urethral discharge
Definition:

A Gram stain is a method of staining microorganisms (bacteria) using a special series of stains. In this test, a smear of fluid from the urethra is stained and then examined under the microscope.

The Gram stain method can be applied to almost any clinical specimen and is one of the most commonly used techniques for the rapid diagnosis of bacterial infections.

Alternative Names:
Urethral discharge Gram stain

How the test is performed:

A urethral discharge is collected on a cotton swab. A sample from this swab is applied in a very thin layer to a microscope slide. The specimen is stained with a series of stains, together called a Gram stain. It is first stained with crystal violet stain, then iodine, then decolorized, then stained with safranin.

The stained smear is then examined under the microscope for the presence of bacteria. The color, size, and morphologic appearance (shape) of the cells help make it possible to identify the infecting organism.
How to prepare for the test:
Adults:
There is no special preparation for the test. The test is often performed in the health care provider's office.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How the test will feel:
The sensation of pressure or burning may be present when the cotton swab is in contact with the urethra.
Why the test is performed:
The test is performed when an abnormal urethral discharge is present. It may be performed if infection with a sexually transmitted disease is suspected.
Normal Values:
No presence of organisms is normal.
What abnormal results mean:
Abnormal results may indicate infection with gonorrhea or other infections (see Gonorrhea-Male).
What the risks are:
There are no risks.
Special considerations:
A culture of the specimen should be performed in addition to the Gram stain (urethral discharge culture). More sophisticated diagnostic tests (such as PCR tests) are sometimes also done.
Review Date: 1/7/2002
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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