Sign-in to Ask A Doctor - 24x7
OR
Sign in with GoogleGet your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
What Does The Gram Stain Test Indicate?
i recently had a throat swab for a gram stain test.... its say that i have "many gram-positive cocci in pairs and many epithelial cells, i have done this test many times before i usually get "few" of the things i mention...i would just like to know has change...and what it means...
Mon, 9 Jun 2014
Hello and welcome to HCM,
The throat swab is showing presence of gram-positive cocci - round shaped bacteria.
There are many commensal bacteria in the throat and oral cavity.
Commensal bacteria are those which are normal inhabitants of the oral cavity and throat.
To find out whether these gram positive bacteria are commensals or pathogenic, culture of the throat swab has to be done.
If any pathogenic bacteria is present, multiple colonies of one strain will be formed.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
The throat swab is showing presence of gram-positive cocci - round shaped bacteria.
There are many commensal bacteria in the throat and oral cavity.
Commensal bacteria are those which are normal inhabitants of the oral cavity and throat.
To find out whether these gram positive bacteria are commensals or pathogenic, culture of the throat swab has to be done.
If any pathogenic bacteria is present, multiple colonies of one strain will be formed.
Thanks and take care
Dr Shailja P Wahal
I find this answer helpful
1 user finds this helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer.
For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service
[Sample answer]
Related questions you may be interested in
Loading Online Doctors....