The Wood’s lamp examination is simply ultraviolet light used to show fluorescence, as in this photograph. The pink signifies the presence of bacteria causing erythrasma. A Wood’s lamp can show subtle skin pigment differences that would otherwise be very difficult to see in normal lighting. A Wood's lamp, as shown here, is used in a dark room and emits UVA light.
Share |

Wood's Lamp Examination 

Picture of Wood's Lamp Examination: The Wood’s lamp examination is simply ultraviolet light used to show fluorescence, as in this photograph. The pink signifies the presence of bacteria causing erythrasma. Divider line
The Wood’s lamp examination is simply ultraviolet light used to show fluorescence, as in this photograph. The pink signifies the presence of bacteria causing erythrasma.
left arrow
right arrow
Expected Results
Some of the many skin disorders that can fluoresce under Wood's light examination include the following:
  • Fungal infections
  • Bacterial infections
  • Head lice and nits
  • Erythrasma
  • Porphyria cutanea tarda
  • Vitiligo
  • Other pigmentary disorders
Prev: Procedure Overview | Preparation / Typical Procedure Next:
Last Modified: 22 Dec 2008
skinmatters blog, skin health and skin care advice from experts
skin condition finder, over 170 skin conditions and thousands of medical pictures
ask the doctor, skin care questions from visitors, responses from experts