What is the Test?
A microscopic examination used to detect fungal infections in skin, hair, nails, and other samples.
Uses potassium hydroxide (KOH) to dissolve non-fungal elements, making fungi more visible under a microscope.
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Identifies fungal infections like ringworm, athlete’s foot, candidiasis, and onychomycosis.
✅ Differentiates fungal infections from bacterial or other skin conditions.
✅ Provides quick preliminary results before fungal culture confirmation.
📊 Normal Ranges & Interpretation
🔹 Normal: No fungal elements observed.
🔹 Abnormal: Presence of hyphae, budding yeast, or spores, indicating a fungal infection.
📝 Test Procedure
1️⃣ A sample is collected (skin scraping, nail, hair, or body fluid).
2️⃣ The sample is placed on a slide and mixed with 10-20% KOH solution.
3️⃣ It is gently heated or left to react for 5-10 minutes.
4️⃣ The slide is examined under a microscope for fungal structures.
✅ Advantages of KOH Test
✔️ Quick and simple
✔️ No need for expensive equipment
✔️ Immediate diagnosis helps guide treatment