Can we see epithelium tissue structure below the surface using an optical probe?

Abstract

This paper answers the question of whether it is possible to detect changes below the surface in epithelium layered structures using a Stochastic Decomposition Method (SDM) that models the scattered light reflected from the layered structure over an area (2-D scan) illuminated by an optical sensor (fibre) emitting light at either one wavelength or with white light. Our technique correlates the differential changes in the reflected tissue texture with the morphological and physical changes that occur in the tissue occurring inside the structure. This work has great potential for detecting changes in mucosal structures and may lead to enhanced endoscopy when the disease is developing to the outside of the mucosal structure and hence becoming hidden during colonoscopy or endoscopic examination. Tests are performed on layered tissue phantoms, and the results obtained show great effectiveness of the model and method in picking up changes in the morphology of the layered tissue phantoms occurring below the surface. We also establish the robustness of the model to changes in viewing depth by testing it on phantoms viewed at different depths. We show that the model is robust to within a 4-mm-deep viewing range.

Optical parameters of embedded abnormalities in tissues as determined by Monte Carlo simulation

“…This prediction has recently been verified by the experimental detection of changes introduced in tissue-equivalent phantoms [26]. Through model studies this has further been demonstrated that the epithelium changes below the surface [27] and malignant tissues in breast could be detected through the simulation of optical parameters [28,29].…”

Optical parameters of embedded abnormalities in tissues as determined by Monte Carlo simulation

“…This prediction has recently been verified by the experimental detection of changes introduced in tissue-equivalent phantoms . Through model studies this has further been demonstrated that the epithelium changes below the surface (Cohen et al, 2007) and malignant tissues in breast could be detected through the simulation of optical parameters (Zhang, 2009).…”

Optical Scanning System for Imaging of Heterogeneity in Biological Tissues

“…The signals detected closer to beam entry point emerge from the tissue layers closer to surface, whereas components from deeper layers emerge at farther distances. Thus, by measurement of the backscattered components at various locations on the surface, for an optical beam incident normal to the tissue surface, the information on composition variation at various depths such as epithelium (6), breast and brain (7,8) and internal organs (9) are determined.…”