Fluid for Fungus Stain/Fungal Smear (KOH) (Specimen Name:

Specimen Required

FLUID (All Body Fluid)

Fasting Required

Purpose of the Test

A Fungal Smear/KOH test is done to detect the presence of fungal organisms in a patient’s body, especially in the skin, hair, and nails. The test is typically used to diagnose fungal infections, such as ringworm or athlete’s foot.

When this test is required

This test is usually requested when a patient exhibits symptoms of a fungal infection, such as a skin rash, itching, scaling, or redness. The test may also be ordered when a patient is undergoing treatment for a fungal infection, to ensure that the treatment is effective in eliminating the infection.

What the Test Detects

A Fluid for Fungus Stain/Fungal Smear (KOH) test is used to detect the presence of fungal organisms in a patient’s body, especially in the skin, hair, and nails. The test helps diagnose fungal infections such as ringworm or athlete’s foot, and it can also monitor the effectiveness of treatment for a known fungal infection.

Preparation for the Test

No special preparation is needed for the test. However, patients should avoid using any creams or lotions on the affected area before the test, as this may interfere with the results. It is also important to inform the doctor if the patient is taking any medication that may affect the test results.

Sample Requirements

For the test, a sample of skin, hair, or nail tissue is collected from the affected area and treated with potassium hydroxide (KOH) to dissolve any non-fungal material. The remaining fungal organisms can then be viewed under a microscope after staining with a special fluid for fungus stain.

Additional Notes

It is important to note that the fungal smear/KOH test is just one tool in the diagnosis of fungal infections, and it should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic tests and clinical evaluation by a doctor. In some cases, a false negative result can occur if the sample is not properly collected or if the fungal organisms are not present in the sample. Additionally, a false positive result can occur if non-fungal material is mistakenly identified as fungal organisms.

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