Most bacteria are identified using a “Gram Stain,” but Mycobacteria have a unique, thick, waxy cell wall made of mycolic acid. This wax prevents standard dyes from entering the cell. In an AFB Stain, a powerful red dye (Carbol Fuchsin) is applied with heat or chemicals to force it past the wax. Once the bacteria are stained red, they “hold on” to the color even when washed with a strong acid—this is why they are called “Acid-Fast.”
₹180.00