The potential of photoacoustic techniques in inflammatory arthritis: what can it do to assist conventional imaging methods?

Abstract To make comprehensive assessments of some rheumatoid diseases, a more reliable imaging method for evaluating joint lesions is required. Photoacoustic (PAI) state-of-the-art technique, providing new options diagnosing disease. In light the recent preclinical studies, detailed morphological structures and micro-vessels small joints, especially finger could be visualized by PAI with high spatial resolution optical contrast using different PA implementations. By measuring signals oxygenated deoxygenated hemoglobin through dual-wavelength PAI, oxygenation local tissues can identified, thus enabling functional imaging. Notably, among various systems, co-registration into high-end commercial US units special-designed handheld PA/US probe great value in further clinical application. Molecular joints also performed exogenous chromophores. this article, we aim to inform readers technique its potential use, impart deeper understanding medical field.