| Title | Microscopically differentiating dermatophytes from sock fibers. | | Author(s) | Karan A, Alikhan A, Feldman SR | | Institution | Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA. | | Source | J Am Acad Dermatol 2009 Dec; 61(6):1024-7. | | MeSH | Arthrodermataceae
Clothing
Dermatomycoses
Diagnosis, Differential
Foot Dermatoses
Humans
Hydroxides
Indicators and Reagents
Mycology
Potassium Compounds
Skin
Specimen Handling
Textiles
| | Abstract | BACKGROUND: Dermatophytes are responsible for a number of superficial fungal infections that affect millions worldwide. During microscopic observation a potassium hydroxide (KOH) fungal smear, various filamentous materials such as common textile fibers from socks can obfuscate proper discernment of dermatophytes.
OBJECTIVE: To differentiate dermatophytes from 9 common sock fibers.
METHODS: Nine different textile fiber samples were microscopically analyzed by using a KOH direct smear test; their defining structural features were compared and contrasted with those of dermatophytes.
RESULTS: Although there are several similarities, sock fibers tend to have a non-septate, uniform structure which differentiates them from dermatophytes. Sock fibers are also significantly larger than dermatophytes and can be viewed better at lower magnifications.
LIMITATIONS: There is a lack of sock samples with 100% textile fiber composition. Also, fibers were examined in a clean setting, without the detritus that normally accompanies dermatophytes in a clinical setting.
CONCLUSION: While textile fibers may be present in KOH preparations, their general appearance typically differs from that of dermatophytes; an observer who is familiar with these distinctions will be able to differentiate between the two. | | Language | eng | | Pub Type(s) | Comparative Study
Journal Article
| | PubMed ID | 19925927 |
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