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.