|
|
|
|
|
| Definition: |
This is a test to detect the presence of fungal microorganisms in sputum.
|
| Alternative Names: |
KOH test; Fungal smear
|
| How the test is performed: |
| Obtain a sputum sample by coughing deeply and expelling the material that comes from the lungs (sputum) into a specimen container. A smear of sputum is prepared with a potassium hydroxide (KOH) and examined under the microscope. If it is positive, fungal cells can be observed. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
| There is no special preparation. |
| How the test will feel: |
| There is no discomfort. |
| Why the test is performed: |
| The test may be performed when there is abnormal sputum production or when an infection of the lungs is suspected. |
| Normal Values: |
| No presence of organisms is normal. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
Abnormal results indicate the presence of fungus such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycoses. White blood cells called eosinophils may also be present.
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
|
| What the risks are: |
| There are no risks. |
| Special considerations: |
| Not applicable. |
|
|
Review Date: 1/13/2002
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
|
 |
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
|
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
|
