Which infection is identified by its fluorescence in a Wood's light examination?

The identification of an infection through fluorescence in a Wood's light examination is attributed to certain dermatophytes, most notably Microsporum canis. This fungal organism causes tinea capitis (scalp ringworm) and is known to fluoresce a characteristic bright green color under Wood's light, which is a specific ultraviolet light that reveals certain properties of skin lesions.

In this context, the Wood's light allows for visualization of the dermatophytes, which can be particularly useful in diagnosing tinea capitis and distinguishing it from other types of conditions that may present with similar symptoms, such as other types of fungal infections or bacterial skin infections. The ability of Microsporum canis to fluoresce under this examination is a pivotal diagnostic feature that aids providers in confirming clinical suspicions.

Other infections listed, such as those caused by herpes zoster, Treponema pallidum, and Pediculus humanus, do not exhibit the same fluorescent properties under Wood’s light. Herpes zoster is a viral infection that does not show fluorescence, whereas Treponema pallidum, the causative agent of syphilis, and Pediculus humanus, which causes lice infestations, also lack this characteristic under Wood’s light, making them