Enhancing polarization contrast of skin of PS-OCT using an image integration method

Abstract

Multiple polarization parameters analysis methods directly lead to the problem of information redundancy and poor readability. Improving polarization image contrast and reducing redundant image information is a direct way to improve the efficiency of polarization information analysis. In this study, we investigate the two methods of the light propagation model and the exploration of the one unique form of canonical decomposition to obtain an integration method of the multiple polarization parameters (IMMPP). By combination of the expressions of 14 parameters, six 1st integrated parameters of axis, amplitude, and the components of degree of depolarization, and three 2nd integrated parameters of dichroism, birefringence, and depolarizance are derived and expressed. Ex vivo skin of a healthy mouse is imaged by PS-OCT, and images of integrated parameters are calculated. The results show that the 1st integrated parameters can be used for preliminary and large-scale monitoring of sample status, revealing several features with well contrast, and the 2nd integrated parameters can be used for small-range and efficient identification of sample local characteristics, retaining the advantage of high contrast, make up for the defect of blurred imaging at deeper depths with better contrast in the imaging depth. This approach is expected to support efficient and accurate disease diagnosis.