Work

Megahertz dynamic optical coherence tomography of blisters in human skin

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Detecting epidermal blisters in human skin using optical coherence tomography (OCT) is clinically valuable, particularly for diagnosing autoimmune blistering diseases. Dynamic OCT (dOCT) extends conventional structural imaging by providing motion-based contrast sensitive to tissue dynamics. In this study, we analyze the diagnostic potential of dynamic contrast in high-speed (MHz-OCT) and microscopic (mOCT) OCT for blister imaging. We first evaluate whether these systems offer sufficient structural detail for blister detection, comparing them to a clinical reference. Dynamic contrast was then examined in an ex vivo human skin blister model using mOCT, and in vivo , MHz-OCT was subsequently applied to healthy and blistered skin. Our findings demonstrate improved layer delineation and blister localization. We further discuss system-specific image characteristics, artifacts, and their implications for future OCT-based diagnostic workflows.

Source: Biomedical Optics Express

DOI: 10.1364/boe.571621

Authors: Madita Göb, Linh Ha-Wissel, Caren Jacobi, Jennifer E. Hundt, Robert Huber

Institutions: University of Lübeck, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Medizinisches Laserzentrum Lübeck (Germany)

Language: English

Topic: Optical Coherence Tomography Applications

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,913