Interferometric versus confocal techniques for imaging microstructures in turbid biological media

Joseph M. Schmitt; Alexander R. Knuettel; Michael J. Yadlowsky

doi:10.1117/12.175999

19 May 1994 Interferometric versus confocal techniques for imaging microstructures in turbid biological media

Joseph M. Schmitt, Alexander R. Knuettel, Michael J. Yadlowsky

Proceedings Volume 2135, Advances in Laser and Light Spectroscopy to Diagnose Cancer and Other Diseases; (1994) https://doi.org/10.1117/12.175999
Event: OE/LASE '94, 1994, Los Angeles, CA, United States

Abstract

In this paper we compare the performance of confocal and optical- coherence (OC) microscopes designed for imaging structures in a dense biological tissue, like skin, to depths greater than several hundred micrometers. Simple theoretical models, supplemented by Monte-Carlo simulations, are developed for evaluating the optical-sectioning capabilities of the two types of microscopes. The OC microscope is shown to exhibit superior rejection of undesired scattered light when the available angular field of view is restricted. Results of experimental studies with tissue phantoms show a progressive degradation with optical depth in the contrast of objects viewed by a confocal microscope compared to that achieved with the heterodyne technique. We conclude by making a few observations and generalizations regarding the suitability of OC and confocal techniques for potential in-vivo applications.

Citation Download Citation

Joseph M. Schmitt, Alexander R. Knuettel, and Michael J. Yadlowsky "Interferometric versus confocal techniques for imaging microstructures in turbid biological media", Proc. SPIE 2135, Advances in Laser and Light Spectroscopy to Diagnose Cancer and Other Diseases, (19 May 1994); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.175999

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