A Comparison of Optical Microscopy Modalities for Non-Invasive In Vivo Biopsy of Skin

Abstract

The prevalence of skin cancers in modern society necessitates the development of a less invasive form of biopsy for diagnosis. Optical microscopy modalities can provide an entirely non-invasive form of virtual biopsy through which suspected cancerous lesions may be diagnosed. Confocal laser scanning microscopy, two-photon fluorescence microscopy, and optical coherence tomography have been developed to a point where they have appropriate contrast, resolution, imaging depth, and scanning rates to replace traditional biopsy and histology in the near future. These characteristics, along with barriers to implementing a new biopsy method, are discussed as a prelude to future conversations in clinical testing.

Keywords: Confocal microscopy, two-photon fluorescence, optical coherence tomography, biopsy, in vivo, skin cancer