Skip navigation | ||
|
||
Medical Encyclopedia |
|
Other encyclopedia topics: | A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9 |
Contents of this page: | |
|
Alternative names Return to top
KOH test; Fungal smearDefinition Return to top
Sputum smear (KOH test) is a test for the presence of fungal microorganisms in sputum.How the test is performed Return to top
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 potassium hydroxide (KOH) and examined under the microscope. If it is positive, fungal cells can be observed.How to prepare for the test Return to top
There is no special preparation.How the test will feel Return to top
There is no discomfort.Why the test is performed Return to top
The test may be performed when there is abnormal sputum production or when an infection of the lungs is suspected.Normal Values Return to top
No presence of organisms is normal.What abnormal results mean Return to top
Abnormal results indicate the presence of fungus such as histoplasmosis, coccidioidomycosis, or blastomycoses. White blood cells called eosinophils may also be present.What the risks are Return to top
There are no risks.Special considerations Return to top
Not applicable. Update Date: 1/26/2004 Updated by: Daniel Levy, M.D., Ph.D., Infectious Diseases, Greater Baltimore Medical Center, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
Home | Health Topics | Drug Information | Encyclopedia | Dictionary | News | Directories | Other Resources | |
Copyright | Privacy | Accessibility | Selection Guidelines U.S. National Library of Medicine, 8600 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20894 National Institutes of Health | Department of Health & Human Services |
Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |