Grocott's Methenamine Silver Stain
Use
Grocott methenamine silver (GMS) stain is used to detect fungi, including Pneumocystis jirovecii, the causative agent of Pneumocystis pneumonia. This stain imparts a black color to fungal cell walls, facilitating their identification under a microscope. Additionally, GMS can stain other organisms and non-organic substances, such as melanin, mucins, and glycogen, providing valuable diagnostic information.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The test is limited to detecting the presence of fungi and some non-organic substances. It may not detect all types of fungi with equal sensitivity. Results can be affected by the quality of the specimen and fixation process. Specimens fixed with non-recommended fixatives will be rejected.
Methodology
Other (Anatomic Pathology)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
2 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Tissue (Fixed (Non-FFPE))
Volume
Not provided
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Collection Instructions
Fixative should be at a 20:1 fixative to tissue ratio, 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF) for 6-72 hours (48-72 hours PREFERRED).
Storage Instructions
Store at 15°C to 25°C. For longer-term storage, specimens may be transferred to 70% ethanol and stored at 2-8°C after fixation.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens must be fixed in 10% NBF or B plus. All other fixatives will be rejected.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 Hours |