Wood’s lamp

Definition

Wood's lamp is a diagnostic tool that emits ultraviolet (UV) light to detect fungal and bacterial infections in the skin. It helps identify specific pathogens based on their fluorescence under UV light.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wood's lamp is used to diagnose infections like tinea capitis and erythrasma.
2. Certain fungi, such as Microsporum species, fluoresce green under Wood's lamp.
3. Bacteria like Corynebacterium minutissimum emit a coral-red fluorescence when exposed to Wood's lamp.
4. The device operates at a wavelength of approximately 365 nanometers.
5. Wood's lamp can also help in diagnosing pigmentary disorders by highlighting areas of hypopigmentation or hyperpigmentation.

Review Questions

• What type of light does a Wood's lamp emit?
• Which types of microorganisms can be detected using a Wood's lamp?
• What color fluorescence does Corynebacterium minutissimum exhibit under Wood's lamp?

Related terms

Tinea Capitis: A fungal infection of the scalp caused by dermatophytes.

Erythrasma: A bacterial skin infection caused by Corynebacterium minutissimum characterized by reddish-brown patches.

Hypopigmentation: A condition where patches of skin become lighter than the surrounding area due to reduced melanin production.