Microscopic Skin Examination for Fungal Detection (Scalp)

What is it? 

This is a microscopic examination aimed at detecting fungal infections in the skin. During the examination, samples are taken from suspicious areas (e.g., redness, scaling, or itching zones) and examined microscopically to check for fungal spores or hyphae. It is a quick and informative method for diagnosing skin mycoses (fungal infections). 

When is it recommended? 

• When there is itching, redness, scaling, or skin cracking; 
• Suspected skin mycosis (e.g., tinea corporis, tinea pedis, etc.); 
• When skin condition does not improve with standard treatment or diagnosis is unclear; 
• When symptoms are similar to contact dermatitis or other inflammatory diseases. 

Benefits: 

• Allows quick and accurate determination of whether symptoms are caused by a fungal infection; 
• Helps select appropriate treatment - antifungal or other if infection is ruled out; 
• Reduces the risk of unnecessary or inappropriate treatment. 

How is the examination performed? 

Samples are collected from the affected skin area using a special tool (sterile spatula). They are placed on a microscope slide, treated with a special solution (e.g., KOH), and examined under a microscope. The result may be known on the same or the next day. 

Examination sites and specifics 

Microscopic skin examinations are performed in various body areas depending on symptom localization. Although the examination principle is the same, each zone has its peculiarities: 

1. Scalp – examined for scaling, itching, red spots, or hair loss. Suspected fungal infections such as tinea capitis. 
2. Foot skin – especially frequently examined for foot itching, skin cracks, or scaling. A common case is tinea pedis (“athlete’s foot”). 
3. Body skin (groin) – fungal infections in the groin area are common due to heat and moisture. Symptoms: redness, itching, discomfort. 
4. Toe spaces – one of the most common sites for foot fungus. May manifest as skin scaling, cracking, or unpleasant odor. 
5. Back skin – examined for spots, rashes, itching, or pigmentation changes. Suspected superficial fungal infections. 
6. Armpits – a common site not only for fungi but also for bacterial inflammations. Microscopic examination helps differentiate these conditions. 
7. Abdominal skin – examination is performed for unclear skin changes or nonspecific symptoms when mycosis needs to be ruled out. 
8. Under the breast – important to examine, especially in women, when sweating creates favorable conditions for infections under the breast (intertrigo). 
9. Hand skin – a common site for fungal infections or contact dermatitis. Examined for redness, scaling, or itching. 
10. Face skin – examined when seborrheic or fungal infection is suspected, and standard treatment is ineffective. Symptoms may include rashes, redness, scaling.