Using the shortwave infrared to image middle ear pathologies
Abstract
Imaging with shortwave infrared (SWIR) light has great potential for visualizing biological structures previously undetectable with visible light. To demonstrate the clinical potential of SWIR imaging, we developed a medical otoscope sensitive to SWIR light. We show that the unique transmission of SWIR light through tissue improves resolution of anatomical structures lying behind thin tissue membranes like the ear drum. We therefore significantly improve imaging of underlying middle ear anatomy. SWIR imaging also allows identification of disease characterized by fluid accumulation, as in the diagnosis of otitis media. With successful diagnosis of otitis media estimated at 51% for US pediatricians, objectifying this diagnosis could curb the antibiotic resistance associated with an estimated 2 million overdiagnoses each year.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Pub Defense Publication
- Publication Date
- Aug 22, 2016
- Source ID
- 10.1073/pnas.1610529113
Entities
People
- Jessica A Carr
- Moungi Bawendi
- Oliver T. Bruns
- Tulio A. Valdez
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Connecticut Children's Medical Center
- European Molecular Biology Organization
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- National Institutes of Health
- University of Connecticut Health Center