Albert Stain Test – Comprehensive Diphtheria Detection
Introduction to Albert Stain Test
The Albert Stain Test represents a cornerstone diagnostic procedure in clinical microbiology, specifically designed for the detection of Corynebacterium diphtheriae. This specialized staining technique plays a critical role in identifying diphtheria, a potentially life-threatening bacterial infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. The test’s importance lies in its ability to provide rapid preliminary results, enabling healthcare providers to initiate appropriate treatment protocols while awaiting confirmatory culture results.
Developed as a metachromatic staining method, the Albert Stain Test specifically targets the unique cellular characteristics of diphtheria bacteria. The procedure’s reliability and specificity make it an essential tool in clinical laboratories worldwide, particularly in regions where diphtheria remains a public health concern or in cases of suspected outbreaks.
What the Albert Stain Test Detects
The Albert Stain Test specifically identifies Corynebacterium diphtheriae by detecting metachromatic granules within the bacterial cells. These granules, also known as Babes-Ernst granules or volutin granules, are composed of polymerized inorganic polyphosphate and serve as distinctive markers for this pathogen.
Key Detection Features:
- Metachromatic granules appearing as dark blue to black bodies
- Characteristic Chinese letter or palisade arrangement of bacteria
- Differentiation between toxigenic and non-toxigenic strains
- Rapid identification within hours versus days required for culture
Who Should Consider This Test
The Albert Stain Test is recommended for individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of diphtheria infection. Healthcare providers typically order this test when patients exhibit:
Symptoms and Clinical Indications:
- Sore throat with grayish membrane formation
- Fever and general malaise
- Swollen glands in the neck (bull neck appearance)
- Difficulty breathing or swallowing
- Nasal discharge, particularly bloody discharge
- Contact with confirmed diphtheria cases
- Recent travel to endemic areas
Benefits of Taking the Albert Stain Test
Choosing the Albert Stain Test offers numerous advantages for both patients and healthcare providers:
Clinical Benefits:
- Rapid Results: Daily turnaround time enables prompt diagnosis
- Early Intervention: Facilitates timely administration of antitoxin and antibiotics
- Cost-Effective: Affordable testing at only $8
- High Specificity: Reliable detection of Corynebacterium diphtheriae
- Public Health Importance: Helps prevent disease transmission
- No Special Preparation: Convenient testing without patient preparation requirements
Understanding Your Test Results
Interpreting Albert Stain Test results requires professional medical expertise, but general guidance includes:
Positive Results:
- Presence of metachromatic granules indicates Corynebacterium diphtheriae
- Requires immediate medical intervention and antibiotic therapy
- Confirmatory testing through culture and toxin production tests
- Isolation precautions to prevent transmission
Negative Results:
- Absence of characteristic granules suggests no diphtheria infection
- May require additional testing if clinical suspicion remains high
- Consideration of alternative diagnoses for respiratory symptoms
Test Pricing Information
| Test Description | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Albert Stain Test – Discount Price | $8 |
| Albert Stain Test – Regular Price | $8 |
Nationwide Testing Availability
We proudly serve patients across the United States with comprehensive diagnostic services. Our network includes testing facilities in all major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, and San Jose. With daily turnaround times and professional sample handling, we ensure consistent, reliable results regardless of your location.
Sample Collection and Processing
Proper sample collection is crucial for accurate Albert Stain Test results. We accept:
- Throat swabs in aerobic transport medium (available from our laboratories)
- Two air-dried smears on sterile glass slides
- All samples must be shipped refrigerated – DO NOT FREEZE
Book Your Albert Stain Test Today
Don’t delay essential diagnostic testing. Our experienced medical team is ready to provide professional Albert Stain testing with rapid results. Contact us now to schedule your test or discuss your diagnostic needs.
Call or WhatsApp: +1(267) 388-9828
Take control of your health with reliable, affordable diagnostic testing from General Genetics Corporation. Our commitment to accuracy, speed, and patient care makes us the preferred choice for medical testing across the United States.

