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The Glowing Secret: How Doctors Diagnose Erythrasma
Published: Jul 24, 2024
Ever wonder how doctors can tell erythrasma apart from other skin conditions? The answer lies in a special light that makes infected skin glow like coral.
The Magic of the Wood's Lamp
Doctors use a tool called a Wood's lamp to diagnose erythrasma. This special ultraviolet light makes the bacteria causing erythrasma glow a distinctive coral-red color. It's like having a secret message written on your skin that only the doctor can see!
Beyond the Glow
While the Wood's lamp test is the go-to method, doctors have other tricks up their sleeves. They might take a skin scraping to look for bacteria under a microscope or even grow the bacteria in a lab. These tests help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions.
When the Light Goes Out
Sometimes, the Wood's lamp test can be negative even when erythrasma is present. This can happen if you've recently washed the affected area, as the glowing substance is water-soluble. In these cases, doctors rely on their clinical judgment and may suggest a trial of treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Not at all! It's completely painless.
Yes, but interpretation requires medical expertise.
It's used for various skin conditions and fungal infections.
Illuminating Diagnosis
The Wood's lamp test is a simple yet powerful tool in diagnosing erythrasma, turning detective work into a light show.
References
- Sindhuphak W, et al. Int J Dermatol 1985; 24:95.
- Mattox TF, et al. Obstet Gynecol 1993; 81:862.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic. Always discuss health information with your healthcare provider.
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