[Application of direct fluorescence technique in the diagnosis of superficial mycosis ].

A Direct Microscopic Exam (DME)--in 40x with KOH at 40% and heat--applied on materials obtained by scraping from injuries on patients infected with superficial mycosis, results effective in the detection and identification of infectious organisms based on their morphological features. This exam requires the ability of an experienced medical professional due to the fact that the mycotic element are not typical or are found in very small amounts. In this study we applied the calcofluor white and fluorescence technique together with the DME with KOH at 40% and heat. In order to do it, 100 samples obtained by scraping from skin of small and big folds and nails from feet and hands, were analyzed. We found a lower percentage of positive (+) DME with KOH at 40% and heat, than with the calcofluor white and Fluorescence Technique, an 84% and 90% respectively. Through the latter, a higher amount of elements with fungi (hifas, macro and microconidias) were observed, and it was possible to clearly see the morphological characteristics of these elements.