Cross-polarised and parallel-polarised light: Viewing and photography for examination and documentation of biological materials in medicine and forensics

Abstract

Cross-polarisation, with regard to visible light, is a process wherein two polarisers with perpendicular orientation to one another are used on the incident and reflected lights. Under cross-polarised light birefringent structures which are otherwise invisible become apparent. Cross-polarised light eliminates glare and specular highlights, allowing for an unobstructed view of subsurface pathology. Parallel-polarisation occurs when the polarisers are rotated to the same orientation. When cross- or parallel-polarisation is applied to photography, images can be generated which aid in visualisation of surface and subsurface elements. Improved access to equipment and education has the potential to benefit practitioners, researchers, investigators and patients.

Keywords:

• Cross-polarisation
• parallel polarisation
• clinical photography
• dermatology
• forensic medicine
• visual sciences

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.