In Vivo Mapping of Vasculature and Mechanics for Skin Tumor Using Optical Coherence Tomography

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is widely used in dermatology, but conventional OCT-based angiography and elastography are performed independently, limiting real-time assessment of vascular and mechanical properties within the same region. As microvascular and biomechanical changes often occur simultaneously during inflammation, fibrosis, and tumor progression, separate measurements may introduce spatial mismatch and reduce diagnostic accuracy. Here, we present a multifunctional OCT approach that enables the simultaneous acquisition of structural and elasticity information within a single scan, utilizing a streamlined sample arm and a customized protocol. Vascular networks are extracted using an intensity-based Doppler variance algorithm, while elasticity maps are generated through phase-based strain analysis. The method was validated using a bilayer tissue-mimicking phantom and tumor-bearing mouse skin, demonstrating simultaneous mapping of vascular and elastic features within the same region. This compact system offers an efficient tool for non-invasive skin assessment, with strong potential for enhancing diagnostic accuracy and functional evaluation.