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Gram stain of skin or groin tissue (Grocott’s method)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test examines a sample of skin or groin tissue to identify fungal organisms, such as mold or yeast, using Grocott’s silver stain method. It helps diagnose infections caused by fungi that may not be visible with standard bacterial stains.

Quick summary

["This test helps determine if fungal infection is present in your skin or groin area."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10755-7
Short code
Fungus Tiss Grocott MS Stn
Synonyms
Fungus Tiss Grocott MS Stn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
methenamine-silver-stain-grocott
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like persistent redness, itching, swelling, or unusual growths in the skin or groin area that suggest a fungal infection. It’s also used when other tests or treatments haven’t clearly identified the cause of your symptoms.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your skin or groin tissue is collected and prepared under a microscope. The Grocott’s stain highlights fungal structures in dark brown or black, making them easier to see compared to standard stains.

Sample Collection

The sample is taken by a healthcare professional using a swab or by scraping a small area of affected skin. The sample is then processed and examined under a microscope by a trained lab technician.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may experience mild discomfort or slight soreness at the site where the sample is taken, but this usually resolves quickly.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Grocott’s Skin Gram Stain

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of fungal organisms in your sample, which may confirm a fungal infection. Your healthcare provider will discuss the next steps, such as starting antifungal treatment.
What does a negative result mean?
A negative result means no fungal organisms were detected in this sample. However, it doesn’t rule out other possible causes of your symptoms, so follow-up testing or evaluation may still be recommended.
How soon will I get my results?
Results are typically available within 1 to 3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you with the results and any needed next steps.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy