Gram stains of specimens for anaerobic cultures should be examined for all the following reasons except:

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Gram-stained smears must be examined for several reasons.The Gram stain reveals the various types and relative number of organisms present.The presence of multiple distinct morphologic forms suggests that a polymicrobic infectious process is present.Certain morphotypes may provide a presumptive identification of organisms and serve as a guide to media selection.The Gram stain often reveals the presence of leukocytes.However, certain anaerobes produce necrotizing toxins (leukocidins) that destroy leukocytes.Finally, the Gram stain can serve as a quality control technique.

Gram Stains of Specimens for Anaerobic Cultures Should Be Examined