Integrated Widefield and Microscopic Imaging Through a Single Lens
Dermatologists use advanced imaging, including Reflectance Confocal Microscopy (RCM), to diagnose and manage skin lesions. However, traditional RCM systems are limited by their narrow field of view, which prevents capturing the spatial relationships between lesions and surrounding tissues—a critical element for comprehensive diagnostics. This innovative technology integrates a miniature Complementary Metal-Oxide-Semiconductor (CMOS) camera with the RCM, providing simultaneous wide-field and high-resolution cellular imaging to improve diagnostic outcomes.
Technology Overview:
Developed at Montana State University in collaboration with Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, this advanced imaging system integrates a wide-field miniature CMOS camera into the RCM objective lens. Key features include:
- Integrated Dual Imaging: Simultaneous wide-field surface imaging and high-resolution sub-surface confocal imaging enhances diagnostic precision.
- Compact Design: Incorporates LEDs, a CMOS sensor, and MEMS optics for high-quality imaging in a streamlined device.
- Validated in Human Testing: Initial clinical results show improved lesion visualization across diverse skin types.
Figures (A) Wide-field and (B) high-resolution RCM images of a skin lesion. Sub-surface imaging reveals basal and nevocyte cells, with clearly resolved nuclei demonstrating excellent optical sectioning.
Benefits:
- Enhances Diagnostic Confidence: By linking surface context with cellular imaging, the system reduces uncertainty and improves evaluation accuracy.
- Reduced Biopsies and Costs: Improves lesion evaluation, enabling more confident diagnoses and reducing unnecessary biopsies, enhancing patient comfort and lowering healthcare costs.
- Streamlined Workflow: Offers a compact, integrated solution suitable for clinical and research environments, reducing equipment needs and simplifying diagnostic processes.
Media:
A recent MSU News article highlighted this technology.
Opportunity:
This technology is protected under U.S. Patent No. 11,300,774 and is available for licensing. Ongoing research offers opportunities for collaboration, and the device is positioned to address critical needs in dermatology and related fields. Potential markets include clinical diagnostics, surgical guidance, and telemedicine.
Contact:
Nick Zelver
406‐994‐7706
nzelver@montana.edu