Development and characterization of a snapshot Mueller matrix polarimeter for the determination of cervical cancer risk in the low resource setting

Abstract

Mueller Matrix polarimetry can provide useful information about the function and structure of the extracellular matrix. Mueller Matrix systems are sophisticated and costly optical tools that have been used primarily in the laboratory or in hospital settings. Here we introduce a low-cost snapshot Mueller Matrix polarimeter that that does not require external power, has no moving parts, and can acquire a full Mueller Matrix in less than 50 milliseconds. We utilized this technology in the study of cervical cancer in Mysore India, yet the system could be translated in multiple diagnostic applications.