Gram Stain Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, Results, & More

Table of Content

Introduction to Gram Stain Test

The Gram Stain Test is a laboratory technique used to detect and classify bacteria based on the physical and chemical properties of their cell walls. This helps detect the presence of bacteria or sometimes fungi (microbes) from the suspected sites. It differentiates bacteria into two categories, Gram-positive and Gram-negative, based on the color they retain after staining. Gram-positive bacteria appear violet, while Gram-negative bacteria appear pink under a microscope. 

Whether the bacteria are Gram-positive or Gram-negative, healthcare providers can prescribe target antibiotics most effective for the specific type of bacteria present. 

This test is recommended for people showing symptoms of bacterial infections, such as fever, cough, and wounds, and those with infections suspected to be caused by bacteria. 

So, if your doctor has advised you to take the test, consult your doctor and book your appointment with Redcliffe Labs. The professionals here promise to provide you with the best diagnostic experience from the comfort of your home.

Test details in brief

Purpose of the Gram Stain Test 

Your Doctor may recommend the test to understand the following purpose. Here is what your doctor may know from the Gram Stain Test- 

• The test will help you identify the Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.
• The test determines whether the infection is viral, bacterial, fungal, or parasitic. Different types of bacteria are treated differently. 
• The test is also used to detect fungal infections.

What does the Gram Stain Test detect?

The gram staining procedure involves applying the bacteria sample to the glass slide and waiting for it to dry. Then, the special stain is applied to the slide and examined under the microscope.

Any bacteria found on the slide will be Gram-positive and Gram-negative. 

• The Gram Stain test detects the type of bacteria in the sample. 
• The Gram Stain Test detects the presence of bacteria and categorizes them as either Gram-positive or Gram-negative. This distinction is based on the structure of their cell walls.

Why is the Gram Stain Test performed?

The test is performed to diagnose the infection caused by bacteria. The test can also help to identify the type of bacteria and cause of infection:

• Swelling or joint pain
• Intestinal infection or disease
• Persistent cough
• Signs of heart infection or fluid buildup
• Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
• Signs of infections around the lung

What are Gram Positive and Gram Negative Bacteria?

The bacteria are identified based on color stain slides. There are also Gram-variable bacteria, as they stain irregularly and have a combination of both colors, like pink and purple bacteria. 

It is important to understand that the pink or purple color does not indicate “good” or “bad bacteria” or “positive” or “negative” reports.

• Gram-positive bacteria- These bacteria retain the primary stain (Purple) and appear purple under a microscope.
• Gram-negative bacteria- These bacteria do not retain the primary stain and appear pink or red. 

Preparation for the Gram Stain Test

The test does not need any special preparation before the test. Here are the instructions you must know before the test-

• You do not need to fast before the test. You can eat as usual before the Gram Stain test.
• Keep yourself hydrated before the test.
• Do not smoke or drink alcohol.
• Don't take any medications or consult a medical professional before taking any medicines or supplements.

The procedure of the Gram Stain Test

Here is the procedure for the test- 

• The sample could be a swab from a wound, sputum, urine, or blood culture.
• The sample should be grown on an appropriate agar medium in case of a culture test.
• Samples, such as urine or sputum, will be collected in a sterile container. 
• The blood sample will be drawn using a needle or syringe. During the process, the phlebotomist will collect the sample from the vein of your arm and then collect it into a vial or tube. The blood sample will be then sent to the laboratory for further analysis. 

What do the Gram Stain Test reports indicate?

The Gram Stain test reports indicate the presence and absence of Gram staining reaction. This is crucial for

• Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria belong to different groups with distinct characteristics. 
• Knowing the Gram stain reaction can help narrow down the possible pathogens. 

Here's a breakdown of what the report might indicate:

• Gram-positive bacteria- These bacteria retain the primary stain (Purple) and appear purple under a microscope. 

Gram-positive organisms include:

• Staphylococcus species.
• Streptococcus species.
• Corynebacterium species.
• Clostridium species.
• Listeria species.

• Gram-negative bacteria- These bacteria do not have the primary stain and appear pink or red.

Gram-negative organisms include:

• Neisseria gonorrhea and Neisseria meningitidis.
• Moraxella species.
• Escherichia coli (E. coli).
• Pseudomonas species.
• Proteus species.
• Klebsiella species.

Consider these specifications to identify whether the bacteria are Gram-positive or Gram-negative-

• Shape- Round (cocci) or rods (bacilli)
• Size, relative quantity, and arrangement of the bacteria, if relevant.
• If the bacteria are present within other cells. 
• Presence of red blood cells (RBCs) or white blood cells (WBCs).
• Fungi may be seen in Gram Stain and are reported.

What conditions does the Gram Stain Test Help detect?

The Gram Stain Test is often recommended for people suspected of bacterial infection. This could be based on a patient's symptoms, medical history, or physical examination. Here are some common scenarios in which your doctor may order the Gram Stain Test-

• Bacterial infections
• STDs
• Joint pain 
• Heart infections
• Coughing
• Pleural space infections
• Unexplained swelling or joint pain 
• Intestinal infections 
• Fungal infections
• Heart infections
• Reason of coughing
• Infected skin sores 
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Pneumonia
• Sepsis

What is the Gram Stain Test price at Redcliffe Labs?

The Gram Stain Test cost at Redcliffe Labs is INR 299. If you're looking for a test, download the Redcliffe Labs app or call us to book your appointment. With every test, we provide the value benefits worth Rs 999/-, passed on to consumers. These include personalized diet plans, health progress reports, and report consultations. We have over 80+ labs offering comprehensive testing from glucose to genetics. Our technicians follow NABL and ISO-certified highest standards with 50+ stringent quality checks. So you don't have to worry about the quality of your test reports. We ensure that we provide 100% accurate results with on-time test reports.

We are trusted by over 50,000 doctors and over 600,000 satisfied customers. So, when booking your health checkup, call us today or book your appointment online. 

Gram Stain Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer Gram Stain Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.

Don’t Delay! Take the Gram Stain Test Today for Faster Recovery

If you are diagnosed with a bacterial infection, you will likely be prescribed antibiotics. Taking the medication as directed is crucial, even if your symptoms are mild. Doing so can prevent the disease from worsening and leading to serious complications.

AAGram Stain test also helps doctors quickly determine the type of bacteria causing the infection, ensuring that the right antibiotics are prescribed. Skipping or delaying the test can lead to misdiagnosis or improper treatment, which may prolong recovery or worsen your condition. Early testing means faster relief and a lower risk of further health issues. So, don't wait—get tested today to safeguard your health!