KOH (Potassium Hydroxide) PreparationCurrent as of: October 5, 2017 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Ellen K. Roh, MD - Dermatology |
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KOH (Potassium Hydroxide) PreparationExam OverviewThe KOH (potassium hydroxide) preparation is used to find out whether a fungal infection is present on the skin. A sample of skin is taken by lightly scraping the infected area. The skin sample is placed on a slide with KOH solution. This solution slowly dissolves the skin cells but not the fungus cells. The fungus cells can then be seen with a microscope. Color stains may be used so that the fungus is easier to see. Why It Is DoneIf you have patches of skin that are itchy, red, or scaly with bumps that look like blisters on the edges, a KOH test may be done to find out whether you have a fungal infection of the skin. ResultsFindings of a KOH test may include the following: NormalNo fungi are present in the skin samples. AbnormalFungi are present in the skin samples. What To Think AboutA doctor may be able to know if you have a fungal infection by the appearance of the rash and may not need to do a KOH test. If the KOH preparation shows that you do not have a fungal infection, other tests may be done to figure out the cause of the skin problem. Complete the medical test information form (PDF) (What is a PDF document?) to help you prepare for this test. Current as of: October 5, 2017 Author: Healthwise Staff Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Ellen K. Roh, MD - Dermatology |
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