By Dave DeFusco

A team of researchers has developed a wearable health device—the Active Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Patch—that promises to transform the way skin conditions are diagnosed and monitored, according to the paper, “Near-infrared Spectroscopy-enabled Electromechanical Systems for Fast Mapping of Biomechanics and Subcutaneous Diagnosis,” in Science Advances.

“This innovative patch provides real-time, non-invasive mapping of skin mechanics, opening new doors for early detection and continuous monitoring of skin diseases like cancer, psoriasis and fibrosis,” said Dr. Wubin Bai, senior author of the paper and an assistant professor in the Department of Applied Physical Sciences (APS) at UNC-Chapel Hill.

Diagnosing skin disorders often involves biopsies, ultrasounds or hospital visits, which can be invasive, expensive and time-consuming. Current methods, such as magnetic resonance elastography and other mechanical tests, may require specialized equipment and expertise, limiting access for many patients.

The Active Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Patch (ANIRP) offers a wearable, affordable and easy-to-use alternative. It integrates near-infrared technology (NIR) with a mechanical actuator to measure the elasticity and stiffness of skin tissues. Elasticity plays a crucial role in diagnosing diseases like skin cancer, which often stiffens tissues, or conditions like edema and scleroderma, which alter skin mechanics.

The ANIRP sends tiny mechanical vibrations into the skin using a built-in actuator. The NIR sensor then detects how these vibrations travel through the tissue, giving highly precise measurements of the skin’s elastic modulus—a measure of stiffness—without requiring tight contact with the skin. This means it is more comfortable to wear than traditional sensors.

“The patch offers instant results in under one second, high precision across different areas of the body and comfortable wear without bio-adhesives or tight attachment,” said Yihang Wang, first author of the paper and a graduate research assistant at APS.

Unlike older technologies that rely on electrical signals, the NIR sensor in the ANIRP measures vibrational frequencies with greater reliability. This allows the device to continuously monitor skin health and detect subtle changes that could indicate a developing condition.

“The ANIRP has already been tested on artificial tissue and validated on human skin, showing promising results in detecting changes in tissue stiffness associated with early-stage diseases,” said Wang. “For instance, skin tumors, like melanoma, increase tissue stiffness due to fibrosis as the accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins and fibroblasts around the tumor area can lead to a denser, stiffer region. The ANIRP can detect these differences early.”

Beyond cancer, the patch can also monitor chronic conditions like psoriasis and keloids, which require regular tracking to manage severity. Healthcare providers can use this tool for quick, at-home assessments, making it especially beneficial for patients needing frequent monitoring.

The researchers are optimistic that future versions will offer even more sensitive and accurate measurements, making it a standard tool in diagnosing and managing skin disorders. This patient-friendly approach could significantly improve the quality of care by ensuring early detection and personalized treatment plans.

“The ANIRP represents a major leap forward in skin diagnostics, bringing together the best of optical and mechanical technologies,” said Dr. Bai. “With its low-cost components and simple design, the patch could become a widely accessible tool for both clinical and home use.”

November 13, 2024