Volume visualization for interactive microscopic image analysis

In this paper we present a volume visualization method for multi-parameter images of three dimensional microscopic objects. Our aim in developing the method is the visualization of unsegmented images in a reliable way. The capability to render unprocessed images is a prerequisite for a visualization tool when used during interactive image segmentation and analysis. In addition, such a method makes it feasible to equip volume imaging instruments, such as confocal microscopes, with a device the authors call an intelligent eyepiece. The visualization algorithm is founded on the physical process of fluorescence, ensuring its fidelity and enabling physically realistic volume rendering. In addition to the method presented, applications to three-dimensional confocal microscopical and medical data sets are discussed.