Wood’s Lamp Examination

Applications and Diagnostics

The Wood’s Lamp is a versatile tool for healthcare providers, capable of diagnosing various disorders and conditions. It is commonly used to identify:

• Abnormal pigmentation: e.g., melasma and vitiligo
• Bacterial and parasitic infections
• Corneal abrasions
• Skin fungus infections: e.g., ringworm, tinea capitis, tinea versicolor
• Other skin imperfections: e.g., acne, aging skin, milia

The lamp is also applied for nonmedical purposes, such as detecting counterfeit money and examining artifacts.

Technique and Procedure

Prior to the examination, the patient’s skin should be clean but not recently washed, with no application of creams, makeup, or other substances that could affect the results. During the test the room is kept completely dark. Safety goggles are put on by both the patient and the healthcare provider to protect from UV light damage to the eyes. After warming the lamp for approximately one minute, the lamp is then held about 5 inches from the skin. The healthcare provider observes any variations in skin color or fluorescence that may indicate the presence of abnormalities. 

Risks and Safety Measures

While generally considered safe, the lamp could, in rare instances, cause a temporary rash in people with extreme light sensitivity. The main risk is potential eye damage from UV exposure. Immediate results are usually discussed with the patient post-exam.

Overall, the Wood’s Lamp Examination is a quick, non-invasive, and informative diagnostic tool widely used in both medical and nonmedical settings.