Transillumination
Transillumination (pronounced: trans-ill-oo-min-ay-shun) is a medical diagnostic technique often used in the examination of body cavities or tissues. It involves the passage of light through body structures to facilitate inspection by making certain structures, such as veins, visible.
Etymology
The term "transillumination" is derived from the Latin words "trans", meaning "across", and "illuminare", meaning "to light up".
Procedure
During a transillumination procedure, a bright light is shone on a part of the body. This light passes through the tissues, illuminating them and allowing the healthcare provider to better visualize the structures within. The technique is particularly useful for examining areas of the body where tissues are thin and light can easily pass through, such as the sinuses or the scrotum.
Applications
Transillumination is used in a variety of medical fields. In dentistry, it can help to identify dental caries and fractures. In neonatology, it is used to locate veins in newborns. In dermatology, it can help to differentiate between solid and cystic lesions.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Transillumination
- Wikipedia's article - Transillumination
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