Good microscopy is the key to quick and precise diagnosis. In dermatology
most specimens should be examined first at low power. High power
and oil immersion are required for small structures, such as leucocytes
and micro-organisms.
Normally the microscope will have eyepieces giving x 10 magnification
of the objective images thus total magnifications and typical use
will be as follows:
Objective
power
Total
magnification
Typical clinical use
Condenser
position
Low
20 to 40
Parasitology, hair examination
Down
Medium
100
Check detail of objects seen at low power
Up or down
High dry
400
Species identification of parasites, dermatophyte arthrospores
Up
High oil
1000
Identification of blood cells, fungi, bacteria
Up
Study the video clips illustrating use of the microscope:
Low
power microscopy