Citation:
Churmakov D Y, Meglinski I V and Greenhalgh D A (2004) Amending of fluorescence sensor signal localization in human skin by matching of the refractive index, Journal of Biomedical Optics, 9 (2): 339-346,
Abstract:
Fluorescence diagnostic techniques are notable amongst many other optical
methods because they offer high sensitivity and non-invasive measurement of
tissue properties. However, a combination of multiple scattering and physical
heterogeneity of biological tissue hampers interpretation of the fluorescence
measurements. Analyses of the spatial distribution of endogenous and exogenous
fluorophores excitation within tissues and their contribution to the detected
signal localization are essential for many applications. We have developed a
novel Monte Carlo technique that gives a graphical perception of how the
excitation and fluorescence detected signal are localized in tissues. Our model
takes into account the spatial distribution of fluorophores, the variation of
concentrations and quantum yield. We demonstrate that matching the refractive
indices of the ambient medium and topical skin layer improves spatial
localization of the detected fluorescence signal within the tissues.