Optical imaging is a set of techniques that use light (visible, infrared, or near-infrared radiation) to capture images of structures ranging from cells to whole organs. It is widely used in medical diagnosis, biological research, and industrial inspection.

Unlike X-rays or MRI, optical imaging relies on how light is absorbed, scattered, reflected, or emitted by tissues.

Basic Principle

Optical imaging works based on:

• Light-tissue interaction

  • Absorption

  • Scattering

  • Reflection

  • Fluorescence