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  Discussion on Gram Positive, Gram Negative Bacteria
Author Message
Member:
Patricia

Posted on Wednesday, Feb 12, 2003 - 8:34 pm:

Dr. O.

Can you explain what is meant by gram positive or gram negative?
Thanks,
Patricia
Moderator:
DrO

Posted on Thursday, Feb 13, 2003 - 8:55 am:

The gram stain is a stain applied to microscope slides in an effort to better visualize and characterize bacteria. Different types of bacteria stain differently with the gram stain, with some picking it up (gram positive) and some not (gram negative).

Though the gram-stain rarely permits definitive identification of organisms it usually narrows the possibilities greatly in diseases and quickly gives information that can be applied immediately to antibiotic choice and patient care. In some cases it may even obviate the need for a expensive and time consuming culture.
DrO
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