| (Microbiology) |
| Investigation | Microscopy (gram stain) Culture and sensitivity |
| Inform lab before sending | Yes |
| Specimen type | Corneal Scrape |
| Ideal time to take specimen | Before antimicrobial therapy |
| Specimen container | Special collection kit is provided by the laboratory |
| How to take specimen | Specialist procedure Inoculate the slide in the area marked and place the scapel blade in to the broth |
| Labelling requirements | Click here for details. |
| Transport to the laboratory | Immediately |
| Turnround | Gram stain results will be telephoned the same day. A report will be issued at 48 - 72 hrs and a final report at up to 14 days |
| Additional information | Indicate if Acanthamoeba is suspected. Contact lenses may also be examined. If possible send contact lenses and fluid in the orginal case. |