Stable tissue-mimicking phantoms for longitudinal multimodality imaging studies that incorporate optical, CT, and MRI contrast

Abstract

SignificanceTissue phantoms that mimic the optical and radiologic properties of human or animal tissue play an important role in the development, characterization, and evaluation of imaging systems. Phantoms that are easily produced and stable for longitudinal studies are highly desirable.AimA new type of long-lasting phantom was developed with commercially available materials and was assessed for fabrication ease, stability, and optical property control. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and x-ray computed tomography (CT) contrast properties were also evaluated.ApproachA systematic investigation of relationships between concentrations of skin-like pigments and composite optical properties was conducted to realize optical property phantoms in the red and near-infrared (NIR) wavelength range that also offered contrast for CT and MRI.ResultsPhantom fabrication time was <1 h and did not involve any heating or cooling processes. Changes in optical properties were <2 % over a 12-month period. Phantom optical and spectral features were similar to human soft tissue over the red to NIR wavelength ranges. Pigments used in the study also had CT and MRI contrasts for multimodality imaging studies.ConclusionsThe phantoms described here mimic optical properties of soft tissue and are suitable for multimodality imaging studies involving CT or MRI without adding secondary contrast agents.