What finding is indicative of candidiasis in a KOH mixture?

Candidiasis, commonly caused by Candida species, is characterized by the presence of pseudohyphae when the vaginal secretions are treated with potassium hydroxide (KOH) for microscopic examination. The KOH mixture helps to clear mucus and other debris, allowing fungal structures to be observed more clearly.

Pseudohyphae are elongated, filamentous structures that resemble hyphae but have a wider diameter and are more constricted at the septa, which helps to differentiate them from true hyphae. Their identification is a significant indicator of Candida infection, as they suggest the presence of this yeast within the sample.

In contrast, other findings do not indicate candidiasis. For instance, clue cells are associated with bacterial vaginosis and indicate a decrease in lactobacilli. Motile trichomonads are indicative of trichomoniasis, a sexually transmitted infection caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis. Vaginal spasm is not a specific indicator associated with any particular infection and does not provide a direct indication of the presence of Candida.

Thus, the presence of pseudohyphae in a KOH mixture is a clear and definitive finding that suggests candidiasis.