Advances in optical coherence tomography in dermatology—a review

Jonas Olsen; Jon Holmes; Gregor B. E. Jemec

doi:10.1117/1.JBO.23.4.040901

26 April 2018 Advances in optical coherence tomography in dermatology—a review

Jonas Olsen, Jon Holmes, Gregor B. E. Jemec

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Journal of Biomedical Optics, Vol. 23, Issue 4, 040901 (April 2018). https://doi.org/10.1117/1.JBO.23.4.040901

Abstract

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was introduced as an imaging system, but like ultrasonography, other measures, such as blood perfusion and polarization of light, have enabled the technology to approach clinical utility. This review aims at providing an overview of the advances in clinical research based on the improving technical aspects. OCT provides cross-sectional and en face images down to skin depths of 0.4 to 2.00 mm with optical resolution of 3 to 15 μm. Dynamic optical coherence tomography (D-OCT) enables the visualization of cutaneous microvasculature via detection of rapid changes in the interferometric signal of blood flow. Nonmelanoma skin cancer (NMSC) is the most comprehensively investigated topic, resulting in improved descriptions of morphological features and diagnostic criteria. A refined scoring system for diagnosing NMSC, taking findings from conventional and D-OCT into account, is warranted. OCT diagnosis of melanoma is hampered by the resolution and the optical properties of melanin. D-OCT may be of value in diseases characterized with dynamic changes in the vasculature of the skin and the addition of functional measures is strongly encouraged. In conclusion, OCT in dermatology is still an emerging technology that has great potential for improving further in the future.

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Jonas Olsen, Jon Holmes, and Gregor B. E. Jemec "Advances in optical coherence tomography in dermatology—a review," Journal of Biomedical Optics 23(4), 040901 (26 April 2018). https://doi.org/10.1117/1.JBO.23.4.040901

Received: 12 September 2017; Accepted: 26 March 2018; Published: 26 April 2018

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