Final answer:
On a KOH prep for a patient with vaginal candidiasis, you would expect to see pseudohyphae or yeast cells, indicating an overgrowth of Candida species.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient had vaginal candidiasis, you would expect to see pseudohyphae or yeast cells on a KOH prep of vaginal secretions. Candidiasis is usually diagnosed with a direct microscopic examination of a vaginal smear that may reveal an overgrowth of Candida species, commonly characterized by its ability to form pseudohyphae and chlamydospores. A KOH prep involves adding potassium hydroxide to the sample to help dissolve the cells and debris, making it easier to see the fungal elements under a microscope.
Topical antifungal medications such as butoconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole, tioconazole, nystatin, or oral fluconazole are commonly used for treatment. These medications have an 80-90% success rate, with longer-term or intermittent treatment being effective in cases of recurrent or persistent infections.