Medical image processing with optical Fourier techniques

Medical image processing is demonstrated by using Fourier techniques. Two optical Fourier systems are designed: the first one is a real-time optical processor with spatial filters and the second one is a self-adaptive optical processor with nonlinear optical films of the biomaterial Bacteriorhodopsin. Medical images including mammograms and Pap smears are investigated by using our optical systems. The desired components which are not clearly visible to the naked eye in original images clearly show up in the processed images. The image processing facilitates detection of microcalcifications buried in dense tissue in the case of mammograms, and abnormal cells in Pap smears. The results will be helpful for early diagnosis of breast and cervical cancers. It is possible to develop low cost rugged portable battery operated systems for rapid screening of mammograms and Pap smears.