Candida: Gram Stained Smear

Gram stained smear of a sputum sample showing Candida, a yeast-like fungus. Apart from oval, budding cells, pseudohyphae (elongated cells) are also distinctly seen. This was from a patient admitted in the intensive care unit, who was on multiple antibiotics.

Note: All fungi are Gram positive, and hence, appear violet in Gram stained smears.

Cryptococcus neoformans: Negative Staining

India ink preparation of CSF, showing Cryptococcus neoformans (low-power view). The capsule can be seen as a clear halo around the organism.

The patient was an immunodeficient 54-year-old female.

This technique, while specific, is not very sensitive. Fungal culture is more sensitive.

The picture below shows the high-power view.