📌 What is the Albert Stain Test?
A microscopic staining test used to detect Corynebacterium diphtheriae, the bacteria responsible for diphtheria. The test helps visualize metachromatic granules (volutin granules) in the bacteria, which appear as bluish-black dots against a green background.
📊 Normal Results
✔ No presence of Corynebacterium diphtheriae
✔ No metachromatic granules observed
🚨 Positive Test May Indicate:
🔺 Corynebacterium diphtheriae infection (causing respiratory or cutaneous diphtheria)
🔺 Carrier state in asymptomatic individuals
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Detects diphtheria-causing bacteria in throat swabs or tissue samples
✅ Helps diagnose diphtheria early for timely treatment
✅ Identifies bacterial carriers to prevent disease spread
💡 Key Facts
🔹 Diphtheria is a serious bacterial infection affecting the throat and respiratory system
🔹 Albert stain highlights bacterial granules, aiding quick identification
🔹 Further confirmation with culture and toxin tests is needed for a definitive diagnosis
🔹 Vaccination (DPT/TDAP) is crucial for diphtheria prevention