In vivo clinical evaluation of otitis media with a Raman spectroscopy and optical coherence tomography probe-based system

To more accurately assess the progression of otitis media (OM) and determine treatment plans in the primary care clinic, spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (OCT) and Raman spectroscopy (RS) have been combined within a handheld probe-based system, known as RS-OCT. OCT delivers micron-resolution images of the tympanic membrane, any affixed biofilm, and the middle ear cavity. RS collects biochemical spectra, providing possible insights to determining bacteria presence and species. In this presentation, we report results collected from patients with recurrent OM. Co-registered OCT images and Raman spectra were collected in vivo immediately before tympanostomy tube surgery and from ex vivo effusions following the procedure. Additionally, we developed a machine learning model for bacterial detection and speciation. These studies show promise that RS-OCT can be used during routine evaluations of OM. Pediatricians may be able to more clearly discern infections requiring antibiotics from self-limiting cases, thus improving patient outcomes.