Transillumination

Transillumination refers to the process of shining a light through a body part or organ to examine its internal structures. This technique is commonly used in medical settings, such as in the examination of the sinuses, scrotum, and breasts.

During a transillumination procedure, a light source is placed on one side of the body part or organ, and the observer looks for changes in the transmission or scattering of light as it passes through the tissue. This can provide important diagnostic information, such as identifying the presence of a fluid-filled cyst or a solid mass.

Transillumination is a non-invasive technique and is generally considered safe. However, it may not be appropriate for all types of examinations or for all patients.

Dermoid cysts are slowly growing benign lesions of ectodermal tissue that often occur in the anterior fontanelle. Clinicians often rely on a negative transillumination test to begin the process of correctly diagnosing a dermoid cyst. Shastri et al. present a case of a 7-month-old girl who presents with a transilluminating dermoid cyst ¹⁾