Kraapimisproov

Kraapimisproov, also known as a skin scraping test or dermatophyte test, is a common diagnostic procedure used in veterinary medicine to identify fungal infections, particularly dermatophytosis (ringworm), in animals. The test involves gently scraping the affected area of the animal's skin with a sterile scalpel blade or a glass slide. The goal is to collect scales, hairs, and debris from the surface and upper layers of the epidermis where fungal elements are likely to be found.

The collected material is then transferred to a microscope slide. Often, a drop of potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution is added. KOH helps to dissolve the keratin in the skin cells, making the fungal hyphae and spores more visible under the microscope. The slide is then examined by a veterinarian or a laboratory technician. They will look for characteristic fungal structures, such as branching hyphae and arthrospores.

While the KOH preparation is a quick way to get a preliminary diagnosis, a definitive diagnosis often requires culturing the scraped material on specialized fungal media, such as Sabouraud dextrose agar. This allows the fungus to grow and multiply, making identification easier and more accurate based on colony morphology and microscopic appearance. The kraapimisproov is a valuable tool for confirming suspected fungal infections, guiding appropriate treatment, and monitoring the animal's response to therapy. It is generally a safe and minimally invasive procedure.