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LOINC Code 17281-7: Microscopic observation KOH prep Nom (Sput)

17281-7 is a LOINC code used to identify Microscopic observation KOH prep Nom (Sput) in laboratory and clinical observation data. You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges. LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Observation. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Sputum.

Reviewed by HealthAssure Clinical TeamUpdated 21 May 2026

What is this code?

LOINC codes identify tests, measurements, observations, survey items, and clinical questions in a standardized way. It is associated with the component Observation. It is commonly used with the system or sample type Sputum.

When is it used?

  • Used in lab systems, EHRs, and clinical data exchange.
  • May identify a test, observation, survey item, or clinical document request rather than a diagnosis.
  • Status: ACTIVE
  • Order vs observation: Both
  • Method: KOH preparation

What it does not mean

  • The code identifies the observation or test, not the actual result.

Key facts

Microscopic observation [Identifier] in Sputum by KOH preparation
Observation
A KOH Preparation involves treating a specimen with KOH, a strong base that can make fungi and yeast more visible by partial dissolution of tissue cells, keratin, and other material. Fungal cells are resistant due to the high content of cellular chitin. KOH prep is generally a test for fungi, most often candida yeast, but others too, such as tinea capitis and other skin or nail fungal infections, even blastomycosis, etc. However, the KOH prep is also used to diagnose infections with mites (Demodex folliculorum in rosacea-like lesions and Sarcoptes scabiei in hyperkeratotic or crusted scabies) and sometimes even nematodes (in blue neck syndrome). [PMID16766846]
ID; Identity or presence; Infectious Disease; InfectiousDisease; Lower respiratory; Lung; Microbiology; Nominal; Point in time; Potassium hydroxide preparation; Prep; Pulmonary; Pulmonology; Random; Respiratory; Spt; Sputum

Where you may see this code

You may see this code in lab systems, lab reports, EHR exports, interoperability feeds, or other structured clinical data exchanges.

Common synonyms

Microscopic observation KOH prep Nom (Sput)Microscopic observation [Identifier] in Sputum by KOH preparationKOH Prep SptObservationMICROSputum KOH testPrid

Frequently asked questions

Code details

Code17281-7
SystemLOINC
Display nameMicroscopic observation KOH prep Nom (Sput)
DescriptionObservation
Short nameKOH Prep Spt
ComponentObservation
PropertyPrid
TimingPt
System (specimen)Sputum
ScaleNom
MethodKOH preparation
ClassMICRO
StatusACTIVE
Order/ObservationBoth

Flags

BillableNo
Valid clinical useNo

Source

SourceLOINC
Version2.82
Releasemain
First released1.0l
Last changed2.78

Consumer names

Sputum KOH test

Part names

ObservationPridPtSputumNomKOH preparationPresence or IdentityPoint in time (spot)

About this content

This page is prepared by HealthAssure's clinical team using official coding standards from LOINC. AI tools assist with drafting explanations, which are then reviewed and verified by healthcare professionals for accuracy. This content is for informational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice. Meet our team.

LOINC Code 17281-7 | HealthAssure