Calibration method and apparatus for optical-response tissue-examination

Abstract

The specification discloses apparatus and methodology for calibrating optical-response tissue-examination apparatus of the type having an optical probe with at least one light-sending terminal portion adapted for introducing light into a test subject and a terminal portion for receiving resulting light from such subject. The calibration apparatus includes a body having outer walls which enclose an internal area and define an inlet aperture and an outlet aperture adapted to receive the terminal portions of the optical probe in a manner to substantially preclude entry or exit of ambient light. Means are included within said body for conveying inlet light from the test probe along a tortuous path communicating with the outlet aperture. In a preferred embodiment, the body includes means defining an outlet aperture located near the inlet aperture, and another outlet aperture may also be provided generally opposite from the inlet aperture or at a similar position of substantially greater distance from the inlet than the first outlet aperture. Also, in a preferred embodiment, internal chambers are provided within the body, certain of which is or adapted to admit a removable sample of selected media, e.g., substances selected as analogs to the anticipated examination tissue, for example, water and/or fused quartz or carbon tetrachloride.