A biomimetic optical approach to skin cancer detection

Kenneth J. Ewing; Kevin J. Major; Jasbinder S. Sanghera

doi:10.1117/12.2554642

20 February 2020 A biomimetic optical approach to skin cancer detection

Kenneth J. Ewing, Kevin J. Major, Jasbinder S. Sanghera

Proceedings Volume 11233, Optical Fibers and Sensors for Medical Diagnostics and Treatment Applications XX; 1123309 (2020) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2554642
Event: SPIE BiOS, 2020, San Francisco, California, United States

Abstract

Cutaneous malignant melanoma is the deadliest and most aggressive form of skin cancer and is fatal if left untreated. Currently, the most commonly used technique to detect melanoma relies on a purely subjective test termed the asymmetry, border, core, diameter, and evolution (ABCDE) test, which is performed visually by dermatologists or other medical professionals. The ABCDE method is at best a qualitative guideline, the success of which depends strongly on the skill and experience of the practitioner. The dermascope is the primary instrument for identification of skin cancer; however, successful results using dermoscopy also require skilled practitioners for accurate diagnosis. Therefore, a significant need exists to identify the presence of melanoma using non-invasive methods that do not require specialized training or skill. To meet this need, we are investigating a biomimetic, non-spectroscopic infrared (IR) optical approach for detection of skin cancer. The biomimetic approach, inspired by human color vision, only requires three broadband optical filters in the mid-infrared (2 – 8 μm), to classify tissue as cancerous or non-cancerous. We present preliminary results demonstrating the ability of this approach to discriminate between cancerous and non-cancerous skin tissue. The biomimetic approach outlined in this paper has the potential to lead to the development of small, inexpensive, portable sensors for various medical applications such as skin cancer diagnosis. Such sensors would require minimal or no training, and could be widely deployed in areas with less access to specialized care.

Conference Presentation

Citation Download Citation

Kenneth J. Ewing, Kevin J. Major, and Jasbinder S. Sanghera "A biomimetic optical approach to skin cancer detection", Proc. SPIE 11233, Optical Fibers and Sensors for Medical Diagnostics and Treatment Applications XX, 1123309 (20 February 2020); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.2554642

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