Microscopically differentiating dermatophytes from sock fibers.
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Karan
Abraar
A
Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
Alikhan
Ali
A
Feldman
Steven R
SR
D003883:Arthrodermataceae / Q000302:isolation & purification*; D003020:Clothing; D003881:Dermatomycoses / Q000382:microbiology*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005533:Foot Dermatoses / Q000382:microbiology*; D006801:Humans; D006878:Hydroxides; D007202:Indicators and Reagents; D009172:Mycology / Q000379:methods; D017680:Potassium Compounds; D012867:Skin / Q000382:microbiology*; D013048:Specimen Handling; D013784:Textiles / Q000382:microbiology*
D006878:Hydroxides; D007202:Indicators and Reagents; D017680:Potassium Compounds; C029943:potassium hydroxide