Direct microscopy in the dermatology clinic: enhancing the management of skin infections and infestations

David Chandler

doi:10.1111/ced.15118

Direct microscopy in the dermatology clinic: enhancing the management of skin infections and infestations

Clin Exp Dermatol. 2022 Jun;47(6):1023-1029. doi: 10.1111/ced.15118. Epub 2022 Apr 3.

Author

David Chandler^{1

2}

Affiliations

¹ Department of Dermatology, University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, Worthing, UK.
² Department of Global Health and Infection, Brighton and Sussex Medical School, Brighton, UK.

Abstract

Direct microscopy is a valuable skill in the management of skin infections and infestations, yet it is underutilized in dermatology clinics. This review details its use in identifying fungal skin infections and scabies infestations, outlining the steps involved in sample collection, preparation and interpretation.

Publication types

Review

MeSH terms

Dermatology*
Humans
Microscopy
Scabies* / diagnosis
Scabies* / drug therapy
Skin Diseases*
Skin Diseases, Infectious* / diagnosis
Skin Diseases, Infectious* / therapy