How to distinguish fungal mycelium from Leptothrix in a smear? 🔬
Leptothrix and fungal mycelium can look similar in a smear, but there are important differences:
✔ Spores nearby? This is 100% a fungal infection. ✔ Leptothrix – thin, even rods, without branching or spores. ✔ Fungal mycelium – branched threads, often with rounded spores nearby.
Dual infection (Leptothrix + fungus) is unlikely but possible. If in doubt, PCR or culture methods can help clarify the situation.
What do you see in these vaginal smear microscopy images? 🔬 Perhaps a dual infection? Share your opinions in the comments! 👇
🙏 Images kindly provided by medical laboratory technician Maria Venchakova, Penza
