Autofluorescence of tissue surrounding malignant tumors

In vitro fluorescence measurements on pap smears of ascites, pleura, or Douglas confirmed results obtained previously with different types of tissue: Cancer tissue fluoresces hardly and is surrounded by a 'fluorescence belt.' Investigations of cytological smears (e.g. Pap smears) have revealed the possible participation of granulocytes in this 'immune' reaction. Furthermore, there seems to be obvious differences in the fluorescence response of pap smears between ovarial- carcinomas and peritoneal carcinomas based on ovarial carcinoma. This observation cannot be explained yet. Because of its sensitivity and specificity the fluorescence method can be used as an additional tool for the evaluation of the tumor invasion front. Preferably it might be used for frozen sections of biopsies and surgical excisions.© (1998) COPYRIGHT SPIE--The International Society for Optical Engineering. Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.