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Fluorescence spectroscopy: A technique with potential to improve the early detection of aerodigestive tract neoplasia

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Background. Any innovation which facilitates the early detection of neoplastic changes in upper aerodigestive tract mucosa has potential to greatly improve survival and quality of life in persons prone to develop malignancies in this area. One technology that has shown great promise during initial investigations is fluorescence spectroscopy. FluOreScence spectroscopy evaluates the physical and chemical properties of tissue by analyzing the intensity and character of light emitted in the form of fluorescence. This technology has been investigated for the noninvasive detection of malignancy in various sites including the gastrointestinal tract, lung, breast, and cervix. Methods. This article reviews the recent work investigating the capabilities of fluorescence spectroscopy to discriminate between normal and neoplastic mucosa in the oral cavity. Also discussed are potential applications for the detection and diagnosis of premalignant and malignant lesions of the upper aerodigestive tract, and some of the obstacles to overcome to make this technology feasible.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)556-562
Number of pages7
JournalHead and Neck
Volume20
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - Sep 1998

Keywords

  • Aerodigestive tract neoplasia
  • Fluorescence spectroscopy
  • Malignant
  • Premalignant

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Otorhinolaryngology

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