Grocott methenamine silver (GMS) stain is commonly used for the identification of fungi on cytosmears and tissue sections. It imparts a black color to the fungal profiles and a pale green color to the background. It stains all pathogenic and nonpathogenic fungi and melanin.

Do bacteria stain with GMS?

GMS is known to stain bacteria and has been shown to be useful in identifying bacteria in prosthetic valve endocarditis. This example is presented to emphasise the utility of Grocott methenamine silver staining in the identification of bacteria.

What is silver staining used for?

Silver staining is the most sensitive colorimetric method for detecting total protein. The technique involves the deposition of metallic silver onto the surface of a gel at the locations of protein bands. Silver ions (from silver nitrate in the staining reagent) interact and bind with certain protein functional groups.