About This Test
The KOH (Potassium Hydroxide) preparation test is a simple and rapid microscopic test used to detect fungal elements—such as yeast cells, hyphae, and spores—in clinical samples. It is one of the most common tests in microbiology laboratories for diagnosing superficial and mucocutaneous fungal infections. It helps identify fungal infections in Skin scrapings, Nail clippings, Hair samples, Vaginal discharge, Other body fluids or tissue samples. This test helps to guide antifungal treatment.
Test Parameters (1)
- KOH PREPARATION
Home Collection
✓ Available
Reports Available In
1 Day
Preparation / Prerequisite
Submit Skin, Nail scrapings, Hair ( including root), Body fluid, Sputum, Bronchial washings / Tissue in a sterile screw capped container OR Oral/Genital/wound swabs in 1 mL sterile normal saline. transport refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Microbiology tests detect disease-causing microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites in samples like blood, urine, sputum, stool, pus, or body fluids.
No special preparation.
Mon-Sat, sample before 4pm, reports same day and Sunday reports next day.
The KOH test is important because it provides fast, reliable confirmation of fungal infections.
TAT Policy
The Turnaround Time (TAT) depends on the following factors:
- Registration date and time
- Type of scan or test
- Scan time or sample collection time
In uncommon circumstances, TAT may be delayed due to test complexity or reasons beyond our control. You will be informed of the estimated TAT at the time of registration.
