The KOH test is relatively simple and can be performed at the bedside or in a clinical setting. Here are the steps involved: 1. Clean the affected area with an alcohol swab. 2. Use a sterile scalpel or blade to collect a sample of skin, hair, or nail from the infected area. 3. Place the sample on a glass slide. 4. Add a drop of KOH solution to the sample. 5. Cover the sample with a coverslip. 6. Heat gently, if needed, to speed up the dissolution of keratin. 7. Examine the slide under a microscope for the presence of fungal elements.
