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Medical Video: Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) Examination in Fungal Infections.wmv
Definition
What is the preparation of koh (potassium hydroxide) for nail fungal infections?
It is not always possible to accurately diagnose fungal nail infections based solely on appearance. A potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation test can help determine whether you have a nail fungal infection. Doctors obtain tissue samples using a scalpel or other tool. Heat and KOH are then used in samples to dissolve keratin — protein fiber which is the main component of the nail — and the skin cells that make keratin. After this substance has been removed, the fungal element can be detected under a microscope.
When do I need to take a potassium hydroxide preparation test?
If you have nails that are discolored, damaged, detached, or thickened, or have dead skin and nail pieces that have accumulated under the nail, the KOH test can help determine whether there is a nail fungal infection.
Prevention & warning
What should I know before undergoing the preparation of koh (potassium hydroxide) for nail fungal infections?
Not all nail diseases are nail fungal infections. Therefore, and because of the risks associated with oral antifungal drugs, your doctor may make sure that you have a fungal infection using the KOH preparation test if you are considering taking antifungal pills (oral medication).
Process
What should I do before undergoing preparations for koh (potassium hydroxide) for nail fungal infections?
No special preparation is needed for this test.
What is the process for the potassium hydroxide preparation test?
The doctor will collect skin samples and / or nail pieces under the infected nail. If a cut sample cannot be taken, the doctor will take a nail sample by slightly scratching the nail near the infected area or with a small knife to pick up the nail piece. Nail samples or pieces are placed on the glass with a KOH solution and slightly heated. This solution slowly dissolves skin cells and nails, leaving the fungal cells. Mushroom cells can then be seen with a microscope. Color stains can be used so that the fungus is more visible.
What should I do after the potassium hydroxide preparation test?
You may experience a slight discomfort when the sample is being collected. Collection of samples takes about 1 minute, and the results are usually ready in 10 minutes. You can return to your original activities after you finish the test. The doctor will discuss with you about the condition and provide appropriate treatment. Sometimes, the doctor may order further examination. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully.
Explanation of Test Results
What do the test results mean?
Normal
There is no fungus in the nail pieces. However, the test may be done again with more samples taken from other infected parts of the nail. This is because there may be no fungus at the end of the infected area, the easiest place to take samples, or in dead tissue, even if you have a nail fungal infection.
If the test is normal, the doctor may take other tests to determine the cause of nail damage.
Abnormal
Mushrooms are found in nail cut samples.
If the fungal organism is detected under a microscope, the doctor will prescribe the right antifungal medication. In some cases, examination of fungal cells may be done to ascertain the results or identify a particular type of fungus.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
