Abstract: Methods and systems related to detecting disease, such as oral cancer, in a patient, using a viewing scope to investigate a patient's tissues. The systems and methods excite and detect fluorescence from the tissue. The fluorescence can then be evaluated, and the possibility of certain diseases such as cancer can be determined. The devices include an ambient light management system (ALMS, often referred to as a “vestibular device”) that manages background light in the health practitioner's office. This device can be used with scope systems for fluorescence based detection of abnormal tissue.

Abstract: Methods and systems related to detecting disease, such as oral cancer, in a patient, using a viewing scope to investigate a patient's tissues. The systems and methods excite and detect fluorescence from the tissue. The fluorescence can then be evaluated, and the possibility of certain diseases such as cancer can be determined. The devices include an ambient light management system (ALMS, often referred to as a “vestibular device”) that manages background light in the health practitioner's office. This device can be used with scope systems for fluorescence based detection of abnormal tissue.

Abstract: Septic barriers interposed between a target tissue such as an oral or vaginal cavity, exposed epidermis, or wound or surgical site, and a user and his/her optical interrogation instruments to reduce cross-infection and/or contamination. In certain embodiments, the septic barrier is substantially transparent for viewing purposes and is typically effectively non-fluorescent, particularly when used for investigating autofluorescence or other fluorescence emanating from a target, so as to have little or no effect on the measurements and observations being made. The sepsis barrier can comprises a window through which the user sees the tissue, a frame holding the window, and an attachment structure, such as threads or bayonet attachment, configured to connect the barrier to the instrument. If desired, the system can also have an optional attachment mechanism for permanent or temporary connection of a further instrument to the frame, such as a tissue retractor configured to aid manipulation of the target tissue.

Abstract: Handheld imaging and sampling probe systems, and related devices, kits, methods, etc., that may improve the general comfort of gynecological examinations and/or obtaining samples of cells from the vagina or cervix, and may also improve sample collection and thus possibly improve the sensitivity and specificity. The devices comprise an imaging and sample collection probe sized for easy and comfortable insertion into the vagina without requiring the use of a speculum comprising a proximally located handle and at least one relatively thin extension that extends distally from the handle. The probe further comprises at least one light emitter that emits illumination light toward the target tissue, at least one imaging system that detects and images examination light emanating from the target tissue, and a biopsy channel configured to transmit to the target tissue a retractable biopsy or surgical device able to retractably contact the target tissue, typically to obtain a sample of cells from the target tissue.