Skin-surface touch print for diagnosing fungal infections

Am Fam Physician. 1985 Apr;31(4):189-94.

Abstract

The skin-surface touch print is a practical, easily performed and noninvasive method for obtaining a sample of infected stratum corneum or hair. This technique is particularly useful in diagnosing superficial fungal infections. With simple staining, fungal hyphae and spores can be readily visualized microscopically. This technique has been found to be as effective as the potassium hydroxide test.

MeSH terms

  • Adhesives
  • Cyanoacrylates
  • Dermatomycoses / diagnosis*
  • Hair / microbiology
  • Humans
  • Hydroxides
  • Mycology / methods*
  • Potassium
  • Potassium Compounds*
  • Skin / microbiology*
  • Staining and Labeling
  • Tinea Capitis / diagnosis

Substances

  • Adhesives
  • Cyanoacrylates
  • Hydroxides
  • Potassium Compounds
  • Potassium
  • potassium hydroxide