LAB TEST
Stool Gram stain
A stool Gram stain is a laboratory test that uses different chemical stains to detect and identify bacteria in a stool sample. The Gram stain method is sometimes used to quickly diagnose bacterial infections.
How the Test is Performed
You will need to collect a stool sample. There are many ways to collect the sample. You can catch the stool on plastic wrap that is loosely placed over the toilet bowl and held in place by the toilet seat. Then you put the sample in a clean container. A test kit is available that supplies a special toilet tissue that…
How the Test will Feel
A lab smear is painless and does not directly involve the person who is being tested. There is no discomfort when a stool sample is collected at home because it only involves normal bowel functions.
Why the Test is Performed
Your provider may order this test to help diagnose an intestinal infection or illness, sometimes involving diarrhea .
Normal Results
A normal result means only normal or "friendly" bacteria were seen on the stained slide. Everyone has "friendly" bacteria in their intestines. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your provider about the meaning of your specific test results.
What Abnormal Results Mean
An abnormal result means that an intestinal infection may be present. Stool cultures and other tests can also help diagnose the cause of the infection.
Risks
There are no risks.
References
Allos BM. Campylobacter infections. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine . 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 287. Allos BM, Blaser MJ, Iovine NM, Kirkpatrick BD. Campylobacter jejuni and related species. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett's Principles…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 04/12/2022).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.