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KOH Test

KOH Test

A potassium hydroxide (KOH) test is done to determine whether a fungus is causing a skin infection. Samples from an infected area are treated with KOH, which dissolves skin cells and leaves behind fungus cells (if any are present) that can been seen with a microscope.

The KOH test may be used to diagnose fungal infections, such as thrush, tinea versicolor, and ringworm.

Last Revised: November 3, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine & Amy McMichael, MD - Dermatology

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