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A Wood’s lamp test uses UV light to reveal skin conditions like fungal infections, vitiligo, erythrasma, pigmentation disorders & pityriasis versicolor. Dr. Toral Vaidya explains how this quick, painless exam helps diagnose hidden skin issues.
When diagnosing skin conditions, dermatologists have many tools at their disposal—one of them is the Wood’s lamp test. This painless, non-invasive test uses ultraviolet (UV) light to help reveal skin issues that may not be visible to the naked eye.
At MDCS Dermatology, our expert team, including Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH, uses Wood’s lamp exams as part of a comprehensive skin evaluation to ensure an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
What Is a Wood’s Lamp Test?
A Wood’s lamp emits a soft UV light that can cause certain skin conditions to fluoresce (glow) under the light, helping dermatologists assess pigmentation, infections, or other abnormalities.
5 Skin Conditions a Wood’s Lamp Test Can Help Identify
1. Fungal Infections (Tinea)
Certain fungal infections like tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) may fluoresce a bright green color under the Wood’s lamp, helping confirm the diagnosis.
2. Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a condition that causes loss of pigment in patches of skin. Under a Wood’s lamp, these areas appear bright chalk-white, making it easier to distinguish from other causes of light-colored spots.
3. Erythrasma
This bacterial skin infection can be difficult to detect without assistance. Under a Wood’s lamp, it fluoresces a distinctive coral-pink color, confirming the presence of Corynebacterium bacteria.
4. Pityriasis Versicolor
This common fungal condition causes light or dark patches on the skin. Under UV light, the affected areas may show a yellow-green fluorescence.
5. Skin Pigmentation Disorders
The Wood’s lamp can highlight subtle changes in skin pigmentation, helping dermatologists assess conditions like melasma, post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, or sun damage.
Is the Test Safe?
Yes! The Wood’s lamp emits a very low level of UV light and is completely painless and safe. It is performed in a dark room and usually takes only a few minutes.
Get Expert Skin Evaluations at MDCS Dermatology
If you're concerned about skin discoloration, infection, or an unexplained rash, the dermatology team at MDCS Dermatology, including Toral Vaidya, MD, MPH, can use advanced diagnostic tools like the Wood’s lamp test to get you answers and effective treatment.