Gram – CSF: gram positive cocci/diplococci (Streptococcus pneumoniae) and neutrophils – Shipped August 2012
HISTORY
The challenge was sent to category A, B, C, and C1 laboratories. The sample was a simulated CSF obtained from a 35 year old patient with sepsis and signs of meningitis.
Participants were expected to report the presence of neutrophils and gram positive cocci.
MAIN EDUCATIONAL POINTS from GS122-1
- Accuracy of interpretation of the Gram stain is of utmost priority for critical samples such as CSF .
- In order to maintain competency, it is important that staff are regularly reading Gram stains from this type of specimen.
