Opto-Thermal Mathematical Modeling and Inverse Depth Profiling Using Genetic Algorithm

The use of opto-thermal transient emission radiometry (OTTER) for non-invasive measurements of water concentration depth profiles in human skin is important for developing an understanding of its barrier function. In this paper, a new inverse method for analyzing opto-thermal data to yield optical depth profiles, which is based on a new multilayer mathematical model designed for opto-thermal skin data analysis, is preseInted. This has been combined with a novel inverse analysis technique using a genetic algorithm. The performance of the new approach is tested on both simulated data and in vivo experimental skin data. The theoretical background is preseInted, and the analysis of typical measurements using the new approach is compared with conventional analyses.