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HelpTest Code LAB251 KOH, Direct Exam for Fungi
Infectious
Specimen Type
Tissue (including skin, hair, and nail), fluid, or swab specimens
Specimen Requirement
Tissue: Submit entire collection in sterile container.
Fluid: Submit entire collection in a sterile container.
Do not submit a swab dipped in the fluid.
Swab: Remove excessive secretions prior to sampling.
Fungal hyphae are poorly recovered from swabs.
Submit a separate swab if aerobic culture or fungal culture ordered to maximize recovery.
Rejection Criteria
Reject if specimen container is unlabeled or leaking.
Reject for inappropriate storage or transport.
Storage and Transport
Transport to the Microbiology Laboratory within 1 hour at room temperature (preferred).
If transport is delayed, store specimens at 2-8 C for up to 3 days.
For hair, skin, and nails, store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Testing Schedule
Performed daily
Reference Range
No fungal elements identified.
Testing Department
Microbiology
Method
Microscopic, conventional KOH
CPT Code
87220 or 87210
Additional Testing Locations
This test is also performed daily at the following Altru Clinics:
- Devils Lake
STAT Turnaround Time
60 minutes
Routine Turnaround Time
24 hours