A Fungal Stain is a laboratory technique used to detect and identify fungal infections in clinical specimens. It involves applying specific stains (such as KOH (potassium hydroxide), India ink , or Gram stain ) to samples like skin scrapings, respiratory secretions, or tissue biopsies. The stained sample is then examined under a microscope to identify fungal cells, hyphae, or spores. This test is commonly used to diagnose fungal infections such as candidiasis , aspergillosis , dermatophytosis (ringworm), and other mycoses. The results help guide appropriate antifungal treatment.