Photographic reproduction of anatomic specimens using ultraviolet illumination

The black-and-white photographic reproduction of the surfaces of anatomic specimens is often difficult due to the uniformity of their color and their natural translucency. The standard illumination for black-and-white gross photographs, which uses white light with a broad range of wavelengths, results in a varying penetration of light into a translucent object; therefore, it precludes a sharp focus. The problem of translucency may be largely overcome by the use of ultraviolet illumination. Ultraviolet radiation (in the range of 320-400 nm provided by black-light sources) provides a more monochromatic light with limited penetration through the surface. As a result, the rays are either reflected or absorbed, and the scatter within the tissue layers is minimal. The combination of limited penetration and more regular reflection produces a sharper focus of the returned light. Thus it provides heightened image clarity and contrast.