In vivo optical coherence tomography of the nasal mucosa.

Background: Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is an emerging imaging modality that uses light to produce in vivo high-resolution cross-sectional images (7 microm) of tissues to depths of up to 3 mm. OCT is analogous to ultrasound, but relies on interferometry and low-coherence optical sources to produce images of tissue structure at the histological level.

Methods: In this study, OCT was used to image the mucosa overlying structures in the nasal cavity to obtain information regarding normative in vivo tissue microstructure. An OCT system using a Michaelson interferometer and a 1.3-microm broadband light source was incorporated into a fiber-optic imaging device that was inserted into the nasal cavity. Cross-sectional tomographic images of the anterior and posterior nasal septum, turbinates, and vestibule were acquired in 44 patients in either the office or the operating room during surgical endoscopy.

Results: OCT images of the nasal mucosa identified the distinct boundaries between the epithelium, lamina propria, and underlying bone/cartilaginous tissue. Within the lamina propria, features consistent with glands, ducts, and blood vessels were clearly identified. In patients who underwent decongestant therapy, before and after images showed distinct morphological changes in the mucosa. The thickness of the epithelium was tabulated, as well.

Conclusion: This study establishes the potential of using OCT to produce high-resolution images of the nasal mucosa. As an in vivo tissue microstructural imaging modality, OCT may be valuable in studying the impact of allergic and infectious disease on the nasal mucosa and monitoring its response to pharmacologic therapy.