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Miniature fluorescence sensor for quantitative detection of brain tumour
Jean Pierre Ndabakuranye1, James Belcourt2, Deepak Sharma1,3,4
1School of Engineering, RMIT University, VIC 3000, Australia. arman.ahnood@rmit.edu.au.
Lab on a Chip
|January 26, 2024
Summary
A new miniature fluorescence measurement system enables precise tumor detection directly at the resection site. This innovation improves quantitative tumor identification during surgery, overcoming limitations of current bulky systems.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Optics
- Surgical Technology
- Cancer Diagnostics
Background:
- Fluorescence-guided surgery enhances tumor visualization during resection.
- 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA)-induced Protoporphyrin IX (PpIX) enables quantitative tumor identification via ratiometric fluorescence.
- Current fiber-based probes face optical loss challenges in remote spectral sensing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To demonstrate a miniature fluorescence measurement system for direct, quantitative tumor detection at the resection site.
- To overcome optical loss issues inherent in remote sensing approaches.
- To enable integration with surgical tools for improved interoperative tumor identification.
Main Methods:
- Development of a millimetre-sized spectral sensor chip for quantitative fluorescence measurements.
- Utilisation of an antifouling diamond window for a stable optical interface.
- In-situ measurement at the tumor resection site.
Main Results:
- Achieved high sensitivity (92.3%) and specificity (98.3%) in detecting a surrogate tumor.
- Demonstrated viability of direct, quantitative fluorescence measurements.
- Overcame optical losses associated with remote sensing.
Conclusions:
- The miniature system offers a viable alternative to bulky fluorescence sensing systems.
- Direct integration with resection tools promises more accurate interoperative tumor identification.
- The antifouling diamond window ensures stable optical performance.
