Improved localization of hidden fluorescent objects in highly scattering slab media based on a two-way transmittance...

We present a novel procedure for localizing fluorescing-tagged objects embedded in turbid slab media from fluorescent intensity profiles acquired along a surface of interest. Using a numerical model based on a finite element code, we firstly develop a method devoted to lateral detection by varying the laser source position along one face of the tissue slab. Next, we mainly demonstrate the possibility to accurately assess the depth location by alternately changing the position of the source and the detector at the both sides of the slab. The dimensionless depth indicator derived from this procedure remains independent, over a wide range, on both the optical properties of the host tissue and the probe concentration. The overall findings validate the method in situations involving moderate size object-like tumors tagged with a new smart contrast agent (Cy 5.5) that offers high tumor-to-background contrast and great interest in early cancer diagnostic.