Smartphones Could Diagnose Diseases Using Infrared Scans

Rapid advancements in technology may soon make it possible for individuals to bypass invasive medical procedures by simply uploading a screenshot of their lab results from their phone directly to their doctor. This innovative approach to personalized medicine and disease diagnostics is being driven by groundbreaking research at Georgia State University (Atlanta, GA, USA).

A research team at Georgia State University is pioneering non-invasive, accessible medical diagnostics through the use of ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, which stands for attenuated total reflectance-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. This technique allows for the examination of the molecular composition of materials by using infrared light to uncover minute details that are typically not visible. Applied to medical diagnostics, this technology enables the early detection of diseases like melanoma through an infrared scan. The research has already shown considerable promise in improving diagnostic capabilities for various conditions, earning patents for the detection of melanoma, lymphoma, colitis, and other forms of cell activation.

Image: In ATR-FTIR spectroscopy, light bounces off a crystal and briefly touches the sample, enabling researchers to take measurements (Photo courtesy of Georgia State University)

Currently, the team is focusing on tracking disease progression. Their latest research aims to measure how a disease develops over time, identifying key milestones that could eventually be used in clinical environments. This type of diagnostic technology could, for example, be used to assess the effectiveness of a specific treatment, allowing doctors to make timely adjustments. The main advantage of ATR-FTIR spectroscopy is its ability to provide precise molecular data and track disease progression without requiring invasive procedures. The researchers aim to embed this technology into everyday devices, enabling individuals to monitor their health from home, and eliminating the need to visit a clinic. According to scientists, these advancements can potentially revolutionize how we diagnose a wide range of illnesses, from common colds to colon cancer.

“In 10 to 15 years, I hope to see this technology in your smartphone, and in your everyday life,” said Regents’ Professor of Physics Unil Perera who is leading the team. “Imagine being able to take your own health readings from the comfort of your home. The potential for early detection and personalized medicine is enormous.”

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