Compact dual wedge point scanning confocal reflectance microscope

William C. Warger II, Northeastern University
Stephen A. Guerrera, Northeastern University
Charles A. DiMarzio, Northeastern University

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Poster presented at the 2006 Validating TestBED and Research Posters on Real World Problems for I-PLUS Development Conference

Abstract

Confocal reflectance microscopy has been shown to provide optical sectioning and resolution sufficient to provide useful information about skin to a depth below the epidermis. However, existing instruments are large and expensive, because of the need for fast twodimensional scanning in the pupil, and the associated relay optics. A more compact scanning system could lead to an affordable hand-held instrument for in vivo imaging. Several approaches are being considered with different advantages and disadvantages. Here we report one approach that incorporates a dual-wedge scanner within a point-scanning configuration. The dual-wedge scanner is implemented by replacing the two scanning mirrors and the telescope between them with two optical prisms that are rotated about the optical axis. This scanning configuration produces a spiral scan if the prisms are rotated in the same direction, or a rosette scan if the prisms are rotated in opposite directions. Preliminary experimental results with the microscope show a lateral resolution on the order of 1 - 2 nm and on-axis optical sectioning on the order of 3 - 4 nm.