Was the woman with Seborrheic Dermatitis of the vulva, HIV+?
This patient=s HIV status is unknown. Question 20: I would like to know your technique/advice on obtaining samples from lesions for Darkfield study, such as in condyloma lata with its white velvety top, and other lesions which cause the lesion to bleed and render the specimen unsatisfactory. Answer: The technique for obtaining samples for Darkfield interpretation requires a fresh preparation of a lesion in order to view the organism actively mobile. The test requires much skill and experience and is recommended only in those places where it is routinely performed. If the test is deemed unsatisfactory on a particular day, serial Darkfield on several days=succession may be useful. Below is the protocol we utilize for our Darkfield specimen acquisition: NECESSARY EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES: Microscope with Darkfield condenser — Frosted end microscope slides — Cover glass, size No. 1 (22 x 22 mm square) — Microscope immersion oil — Disposable bacteriological loop — Disposable scalpel — C
