The role of a new noninvasive imaging technology in the diagnosis of anemia.

Traditionally, numerical data regarding the status of a patient are a combination of measurements made at the point of care (POC) and those made in the laboratory on specimens withdrawn from the patient. We report here on our experiences with a new method for a noninvasive determination of anemia, as defined by blood hemoglobin (Hb) concentration. This method is based on a novel technology, orthogonal polarization spectral imaging, which provides high quality digitized images of the microcirculation using reflected light. Measurements of Hb, based on the analysis of these images at the POC, were found to compare favorably with results obtained with traditional laboratory methods. Additional advantages of these new POC technologies are that they will make possible completely new measurements that may have no direct analog with existing methods. For example, orthogonal polarization spectral imaging can give feedback regarding microvascular density, which also may be reduced in anemic subjects. This information may give earlier and different insights regarding the patient status in nutritional deficiency anemia than an Hb concentration only. However, additional research will be required to confirm the accuracy and utility of this measurement, especially in adult and pediatric populations, where anemia is more commonly encountered. The ultimate success of POC testing will require collaboration between the attending health care professional, the laboratory and institutional management to rapidly assimilate improved methodologies and new information to provide benefits to the patient.