Reflectance imaging gives a convolved image of superficial and deeper tissue layers. On the other hand, polarization reflectance imaging allows separation of superficial tissue from the convolved tissue image. In this report, polarized light imaging is used to investigate hydration and desiccation on superficial layers of ex vivo porcine skin tissues. A polarization camera acquired co-polarized and cross-polarized reflectance images from porcine front and back dermal surfaces. Polarized scattering is sensitive to sub-micrometer changes in tissue structure, and therefore is useful in detecting collagen density changes in tissue. The reflectance images were acquired at five different wavelengths (405, 490, 590, 660, and 700 nm) for hydrated and desiccated tissues. The back surface (dermal surface) of the skin was affected by hydration or desiccation, while the front surface (epidermal surface) was not as affected due to the stratum corneum which resists desiccation.
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