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Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute, San Juan Capistrano, CA

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Gram Stain 497X

CPT Code(s): 87205

Specimen Container:

Bacterial transport tube, sterile screw cap container, or transport tube with preservative (for urine)

Preferred Specimen:

Swabs, sputum, bronchial washing, body fluids, urine, tissue

Transport Temperature:

Refrigerated, stable 2 days

Methodology:

Microscopic Examination

Clinical Use:

The Gram stain is a rapid, preliminary test to identify bacterial infections and to guide initial antibacterial therapy.