LOINC display name : Microscopic observation KOH prep Nom (Tiss);
LOINC long common name : Microscopic observation [Identifier] in Tissue by KOH preparation;
LOINC short name : KOH Prep Tiss;
LOINC description : A KOH Preparation involves treating a specimen with KOH, a strong base that can make
fungi and yeast more visible by partial dissolution of tissue cells, keratin, and
other material. Fungal cells are resistant due to the high content of cellular chitin.
KOH prep is generally a test for fungi, most often candida yeast, but others too,
such as tinea capitis and other skin or nail fungal infections, even blastomycosis,
etc. However, the KOH prep is also used to diagnose infections with mites (Demodex
folliculorum in rosacea-like lesions and Sarcoptes scabiei in hyperkeratotic or crusted
scabies) and sometimes even nematodes (in blue neck syndrome). [PMID:16766846];
Has component