Detection and Treatment of New Depigmentation

Wood's Lamp can be of great help. In fair skin individuals it detects Vitiligo (and other depigmentations) even when it is not visible to the eye under normal light conditions. Areas affected by Vitiligo revealed by this test can then be treated at a very early stage. This way, Vitiligo can be treated even before it is visible, minimizing treatment time and preventing further expansion.

What is Wood’s lamp?

Wood's lamp is also know as black light test or ultraviolet light test. It is based on the use of ultraviolet light, which is shined on the area being examined. It is performed in a dark room.

How is Wood’s lamp test done?

You will be asked to seat on a dark room. After your eyes adjust to the darkness, your doctor will turn on the Wood’s lamp. It is held 4 to 5 inches from the area being examined. It will reveal skin color changes not visible to the mere eye examination. While being examined you should not look directly into the light.

How can I prepare for the test?

No special preparation is needed. Just do not use any topical medications before visiting the doctor.

Will I feel any discomfort during the examination?

You will feel nothing during this test.

Are there any side effects or risks associated to this test?

There are no adverse side effects and no risks. Avoid looking directly into the ultraviolet light.

Why is it useful to be examined with the Wood’s lamp?

Normally your skin will not fluoresce, or shine, under the ultraviolet light. This test reveal different colors according to the type of skin disease, which may include:

• Golden Yellow (Tinea Versicolor)



• Pale Green (Trichophyton Schoenleini)



• Bright Yellowgreen (Microsporum Audouini or M. Canis)



• Aquagreen To Blue (Pseudomonas Aeruginosa)



• Pink To Pinkorange (Porphyria Cutanea Tarda)



• Ash-Leaf-Shaped Spot (Tuberous Sclerosis)



• Bluewhite (Leprosy)



• Pale White (Hypopigmentation)



• Purplebrown (Hyperpigmentation)



• Bright White, Or Bluewhite (Depigmentation, Vitiligo)



• Bright White (Albinism)
  
  

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