What is a Wood Lamp Examination?
A Wood lamp examination is a non-invasive, physical examination of the skin using a strong, ultra-violet light. The light remains cool to the touch and makes certain areas of the skin appear different in color when viewed under the lamp. This type of examination can help a physician to determine the type of skin condition present.
When is a Wood Lamp Examination Performed?
A Wood lamp examination is typically performed as a diagnostic test to detect certain skin disorders including bacterial and fungal infections and certain types of skin cancer. It may also be used to detect damage to skin cells due to ultraviolet radiation.
Preparation:
A Wood lamp examination does not require any special preparation by the patient. The physician will be present during the examination.
Procedure:
The patient will be asked to stand several feet away from the Wood lamp and the physician will begin to shine the light on the patient’s skin. The physician will be looking for changes in color of the skin, such as yellow or green. If any changes are detected, further testing will be done to confirm the cause.
Types of Wood Lamp Examinations:
There are two types of Wood lamp examinations:
- Fluorescent Wood Lamp Examination
- Wood's lamp Examination
Fluorescent Wood Lamp Examination (UV Wood Lamp)
This type of Wood lamp examination is used to detect certain skin conditions such as bacterial and fungal infections, age spots, and certain types of skin cancer. This type of examination uses an ultraviolet (UV) light to cause a glowing of certain areas of skin.
Wood's Lamp Examination (Infrared Wood Lamp)
This type of Wood lamp examination is used to detect damage to skin cells due to sun exposure or other environmental exposure. This type of examination uses an infrared light to cause a glowing of certain areas of skin.
Risks:
A Wood lamp examination is a non-invasive test and poses no risk to the patient.
Why is a Wood Lamp Examination Performed?
A Wood lamp examination is performed as a diagnostic test to detect certain skin disorders including bacterial and fungal infections, age spots, and certain types of skin cancer. It may also be used to detect damage to skin cells due to ultraviolet radiation.