Overview
Bronchial washing is a part of a procedure known as bronchoscopy. During this procedure, a doctor looks into the lungs with a fiber-optic bronchoscope to check for irregularities and take tissue samples. Saline is injected through the bronchoscope into the lung and then suctions it back out to check the wash return fluid.
A fungus is a type of germ that lives in the air, soil and plants, and even on our own bodies. There are more than a million different kinds of fungi. Most are harmless, but a few types of fungi can cause infections. There are two main types of fungal infections:
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Superficial (affecting parts of the outer body) affects the skin, genital area, and nails. Superficial infections include athlete's foot, vaginal yeast infections, and ringworm, which is not a worm but a fungus that can cause a circular rash on the skin. While not serious, superficial fungal infections can cause itchy, scaly rashes and other uncomfortable conditions.
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Systemic (affecting systems inside the body) affects the lungs, blood, and other systems in the body. These infections can be serious.
FUNGAL SMEAR KOH LAB TEST:
Bronchial washing for fungal smear KOH lab test is a simple test that helps doctors identify the fungal infection in the lungs. This test is also known as potassium hydroxide test.
- How is the test performed?
Bronchoscopy is usually done in a procedure room in a clinic or in a hospital operating room. The entire procedure, including prep and recovery time, typically takes about four hours. Bronchoscopy itself usually lasts about 30 to 60 minutes.
- Is there any risk associated with the test?
Bronchoscopy is safe for most people. However, like all medical procedures, there are some risks involved. Risks may include:
- bleeding, especially if a biopsy is done
- infection
- trouble breathing
- low blood oxygen level during the test
Contact your doctor if you:
- have a fever
- are coughing up blood
- have trouble breathing
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULT:
Normal results of a bronchoscopy mean that the doctor did not see any fungal infection, foreign materials, blockages, or unusual cells or fluids in the bronchi.
If the results are abnormal, the doctor will recommend further tests or treatments, depending on the outcome.
