Enhanced in vivo visualization of the microcirculation by topical application of fructose solution confirmed with correlation mapping optical coherence tomography.
Changes within the microcirculation can provide an early indication of the onset of a plethora of ailments. Various techniques have thus been developed that enable the study of microcirculatory irregularities. Correlation mapping optical coherence tomography (cmOCT) is a recently proposed technique, which enables mapping of vasculature networks at the capillary level in a noninvasive and noncontact manner. This technique is an extension of conventional optical coherence tomography (OCT) and is therefore likewise limited in the penetration depth of ballistic photons in biological media. Optical clearing has previously been demonstrated to enhance the penetration depth and the imaging capabilities of OCT. In order to enhance the achievable maximum imaging depth, we propose the use of optical clearing in conjunction with the cmOCT technique. We demonstrate in vivo a 13% increase in OCT penetration depth by topical application of a high-concentration fructose solution, thereby enabling the visualization of vessel features at deeper depths within the tissue.
Tissue Optics and Microcirculation Imaging Facility, National Biophotonics and Imaging Platform, Department of Physics and Energy, Ireland.
Joey
J
Enfield
Tissue Optics and Microcirculation Imaging Facility, National Biophotonics and Imaging Platform, Department of Physics and Energy, Ireland.
James
J
McGrath
Tissue Optics and Microcirculation Imaging Facility, National Biophotonics and Imaging Platform, Department of Physics and Energy, Ireland.
Susan M
SM
Daly
Tissue Optics and Microcirculation Imaging Facility, National Biophotonics and Imaging Platform, Department of Physics and Energy, IrelandbNational University of Ireland, Tissue Optics and Microcirculation Imaging Group, National Biophotonics and Imaging.
Martin
M
Leahy
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D005632:Fructose / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology; D006801:Humans; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D008833:Microcirculation / Q000502:physiology*; D019047:Phantoms, Imaging; D012867:Skin / Q000098:blood supply / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000187:drug effects; D041623:Tomography, Optical Coherence / Q000379:methods*
D005632:Fructose