Test Code Billings Clinic: 6841 Potassium Hydroxide Preparation, Mouth

Performing Laboratory

Billings Clinic Laboratory

Potassium hydroxide (KOH) preparation is used to determine the presence of fungus in various sites such as skin, nails, hair, sputum, etc.

1. Obtain specimen using a culture transport swab.

2. Return swab to culture transport tube.

3. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.

4. Maintain sterility and forward promptly.

Note: Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

No fungal elements seen
Note: Cultures are more sensitive than smears; therefore, KOH preparation may be negative when culture is positive.

Monday through Sunday

87220