Which Gram stain finding is characteristic of Neisseria gonorrhoeae?

• A. Gram-negative intracellular diplococci
• B. Gram-positive cocci in clusters
• C. Gram-negative rods
• D. Gram-positive diplococci

Answer: (A)

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is best identified by Gram stain when you see gram-negative diplococci inside neutrophils. This intracellular, paired, kidney-shaped arrangement is a classic clue from purulent genital or urethral discharge and is highly suggestive of gonorrhea. Other patterns point to different organisms: gram-positive cocci in clusters suggest Staphylococcus species, gram-negative rods cover a broad range of enteric bacteria, and gram-positive diplococci fit organisms like Streptococcus pneumoniae.