Final answer:
To distinguish Speckled leukoplakia from pseudomembranous candidiasis, diagnostic tests like KOH wet mount preparation, culturing on Sabouraud's agar, and microscopic examination of the lesion are used. The presence of cell walls and response to antifungal medications like nystatin or fluconazole are key indicators.
Step-by-step explanation:
To differentiate between Speckled leukoplakia and pseudomembranous candidiasis, a physician may perform several diagnostic tests. For suspected candidiasis, a KOH wet mount can be prepared, showing the characteristic Candida albicans pseudohyphae, as depicted in Figure 23.23(b). A sample may also be taken for culturing on Sabouraud's agar to look for signs of fungal infection; for example, Trichophyton rubrum will show a granular texture with a pale pink and red appearance, indicating ringworm. Additionally, a microscopic examination of a lesion's specimen, after proper cleaning and scraping, can reveal the presence of cell walls, ruling out other pathogens like helminths that lack cell walls. For systemic infections or to confirm the specific strain of Candida, a physician may prescribe antifungal medications such as nystatin or fluconazole and monitor the patient's response to treatment.