Abstract

The potential of optical spectroscopic detection for the early detection of malignancy is becoming more widely accepted. Many studies have demonstrated the potential of Raman spectroscopy for the identification and classification of malignant changes, with valuable insight into possible applications. However much of the work has been undertaken without clear recognition of the biochemical changes that distinguish between the different stages of malignant progression. Raman mapping experiments have been undertaken in an attempt to increase understanding of the biochemical changes involved in the development of oesophageal malignancy. Pseudocolour maps of the significant principal component scores have been generated. The peaks of the corresponding principal component loads have been identified, by comparison with constituent spectra and published spectral identities. Investigating the measured biochemical changes in greater detail, further demonstrates the potential of near infrared Raman spectroscopy for the analysis of biological tissue.

© 2003 SPIE