KOH test
KOH test is a quick and cost-effective method used in medicine to diagnose fungal infections of the skin, hair, and nails. The test is named after the chemical used in the procedure, potassium hydroxide (KOH).
Procedure[edit | edit source]
The KOH test involves scraping the affected area of the skin, hair, or nails and placing the sample on a microscope slide. A few drops of a solution containing KOH are added to the sample. The slide is then gently heated, which dissolves the cells but leaves the fungal cells intact. The slide is examined under a microscope to identify the presence of fungal cells.
Uses[edit | edit source]
The KOH test is primarily used to diagnose:
- Tinea pedis (athlete's foot)
- Tinea corporis (ringworm)
- Tinea capitis (scalp ringworm)
- Tinea unguium (fungal nail infection)
- Candidiasis (yeast infection)
Advantages and Disadvantages[edit | edit source]
The main advantage of the KOH test is its speed and cost-effectiveness. The test can be performed quickly in a doctor's office or a lab, and the results are available immediately. However, the test may not always be accurate. It may not detect a fungal infection if the number of fungal cells in the sample is low. It may also give a false positive result if the sample is contaminated with other types of cells.
See Also[edit | edit source]
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