Terahertz technology and its applications in head and neck diseases

Area of Science:

• Life Sciences
• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Physics

Background:

• Terahertz (THz) radiation, spanning electromagnetic waves between infrared and millimeter waves, has emerged as a significant technology in life sciences.
• Over the past three decades, THz technology has demonstrated substantial potential for medical diagnosis and various biomedical applications.
• Understanding the biological effects of THz waves is crucial for advancing its clinical utility.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the biological characteristics of terahertz waves.
• To discuss the clinical applications of THz technology in diagnosing and treating head and neck diseases.
• To highlight research progress and future perspectives of THz technology in head and neck oncology and other related conditions.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review focusing on terahertz radiation and its biological interactions.
• Analysis of research progress in applying THz technology to specific head and neck diseases.
• Synthesis of current findings on THz wave characteristics and clinical relevance.

Main Results:

• Terahertz radiation has demonstrated efficacy in the diagnosis and treatment of several head and neck conditions.
• Significant research progress has been made in applying THz technology to brain cancer, hypopharyngeal cancer, oral diseases, thyroid nodules, Alzheimer's disease, eye diseases, and otitis.
• The biological properties of THz waves are being increasingly understood in the context of medical applications.

Conclusions:

• Terahertz technology holds considerable promise for the future of head and neck disease management.
• Continued research into THz wave-tissue interactions will likely expand its diagnostic and therapeutic roles.
• Future applications of THz technologies in head and neck diseases are anticipated to grow significantly.