Near-Infrared Spectroscopic Medical Imaging of Brain and Breast

Near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) has emerged as a critical technology in the field of medical imaging, offering significant applications in areas such as brain imaging and breast imaging. This paper provides an in-depth examination of the evolving trends in NIRS, with a particular focus on its integration with other imaging modalities like functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) and electroencephalography (EEG). The discussion highlights the progress made in combining these techniques to enhance the breadth and depth of medical diagnostics. Key challenges associated with NIRS are thoroughly explored, including issues related to its spatial resolution, sensitivity to deeper tissues, and the influence of extracerebral structures on signal specificity. Efforts to improve the quantitative accuracy of hemodynamic measurements are also addressed, with particular attention to overcoming obstacles posed by tissue heterogeneity and limited spatial resolution. Further, the paper delves into the advancements in diffuse optical tomography, the ongoing development of NIRS instrumentation, and the role of clinical trials in validating its diagnostic reliability for breast imaging. Emphasis is placed on the need for standardized practices, the seamless integration of NIRS into routine clinical workflows, and the opportunities for future research to address unresolved challenges and expand the utility of this promising technology.