Definition: A KOH test is used to diagnose fungal infections of the skin or nails. The skin or nail is scraped with a scalpel or glass slide causing dead skin cells to fall off onto a glass slide. A few drops of Potassium hydroxide (KOH) are added to the slide and the slide is heated for a short time. The KOH dissolves the material binding the skin cells together releasing the fungus. The slide is then viewed under the microscope looking for fungal elements.
KOH Test
By Heather Brannon, MD, About.com Guide
Updated: January 04, 2004
About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board
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