Raman spectroscopy for optical diagnosis in normal and cancerous tissue of the nasopharynx—preliminary findings

Background and Objectives Raman spectroscopy (RS), which can detect molecular changes associated with cancer, was explored as a means of distinguishing normal and cancerous nasopharyngeal tissue. Study Design/Patients and Methods Tissue from six patients with normal and cancerous biopsies was studied using a rapid acquisition Raman spectrometer. Results Spectra were obtainable within 5 seconds. Consistent differences were noted between normal and cancer tissue in three bands 1,290–1,320 cm −1 ( P  = 0.005), 1,420–1,470 cm −1 ( P  = 0.006), and 1,530–1,580 cm −1 ( P  = 0.002). Conclusions Spectral differences appear to exist between normal and cancerous nasopharyngeal tissue. The ability to obtain spectra rapidly supports the potential for future in vivo application. Lasers Surg. Med. 32:210–214, 2003. © 2003 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.