Fluorescent diffuse photon density waves in homogeneous and heterogeneous turbid media: Analytic solutions and applications

X. D. Li, M. A. O’leary, D. A. Boas, B. Chance, A. G. Yodh

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

116 Scopus citations

Abstract

We present analytic solutions for fluorescent diffuse photon density waves originating from fluorophores distributed in thick turbid media. Solutions are derived for a homogeneous turbid medium containing a uniform distribution of fluorophores and for a system that is homogeneous except for the presence of a single spherical inhomogeneity. Generally the inhomogeneity has fluorophore concentration, and lifetime and optical properties that differ from those of the background. The analytic solutions are verified by numerical calculations and are used to determine the fluorophore lifetime and concentration changes required for the accurate detection of inhomogeneities in biologically relevant systems. The relative sensitivities of absorption and fluorescence methods are compared.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)3746-3758
Number of pages13
JournalApplied Optics
Volume35
Issue number19
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 1996
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics
  • Engineering (miscellaneous)
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Fluorescent diffuse photon density waves in homogeneous and heterogeneous turbid media: Analytic solutions and applications'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this