Wood?s lamp

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Wood's lamp test - of the scalp

Overview Risks Results

Wood?s lamp

Wood's lamp is a test that is performed in a dark room, shining ultraviolet light on the area of interest.

You will be seated and the lights will be turned off. Your physician will turn on the Wood's lamp and hold it 4 - 5 inches from the area being studied. Your physician will then look at your skin for any color changes. Take care not to look directly into the light.

No special preparation is needed. If you are treating the area in question with any topical medications, you may wish to skip an application before visiting the doctor.

You will feel nothing during this test. Likewise, there should be no adverse side effects.

Your health care provider may perform this test to detect several conditions, including:

• Bacterial infections
• Fungal infections
• Porphyria
• Pigmentary alterations

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