Enhancing axial resolution in dermoscopy using an RGB flat lens

Abstract

Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool in biomedical science, enabling non-invasive, high-resolution imaging for early detection and diagnosis of skin diseases. Although there have been considerable improvements in functionality and applications of dermoscopy, enhancement of depth-of-focus (DOF) for detailed imaging of multiple layers of skin needs to be addressed. High axial length improves the diagnostic function by providing a more comprehensive understanding of subsurface structures and abnormalities. We have proposed a flat lens solution for enhanced axial resolution that aids in differentiating between benign and malignant lesions, improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. This study presents an all-dielectric design of a metalens, which uses titanium dioxide (TiO2) to simultaneously achieve maximum transmission and extended axial resolution. Our designed metalens are optimized for broadband visible light regimes from 488 nm to 633 nm, offering enhanced imaging performance across this broad spectral range. Using an extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) metalens, this study has enabled healthcare experts to substantially enhance the axial resolution of dermoscopy. This results in the ability to scan the dermis and epidermis skin layers in real time for diagnosis. This technology of metalens integration into medical engineering increases real-time imaging in medical diagnostics, offering improved accuracy and axial resolution in dermoscopy examinations.