[Application of terahertz technology in medical testing and diagnosis].

Terahertz science and technology is increasingly emphasized in science and industry, and has progressed significantly in recent years. There is an important aspect of attention in the application of terahertz technology to medicine. The overview of the terahertz characters, terahertz spectroscopy and terahertz imaging technology is introduced. This paper focuses on reviewing the use of and research progress in terahertz spectroscopy and terahertz imaging technology in medical testing and diagnosis. Furthermore, the problems to be solved and development directions of terahertz spectroscopy and terahertz imaging technology are discussed.

[What's new in biomedical applications for Terahertz (THz) technology]. / A la frontière onde-lumière : que peuvent apporter les techniques térahertz (THz) dans le domaine de la santé ?

Terahertz technologies have recently been applied to develop high resolution imaging. Since practical portable systems can be designed, the possibilty has emerged to easily screen for biohazards and concealed objects, a procedure which usually requires remote analysis. Applications of THz are also envisaged in the medical field, because this technology offers a degree of accuracy never reached before in molecule analysis. Skin abnormalities and dental health care are two promising targets of THz applications. Nevertheless, potential hazards and health effects of THz exposure should be monitored carefully, particularly since some data suggest induction of genomic instability.

Terahertz pulsed imaging--a potential medical imaging modality?

Terahertz imaging has progressed significantly over the last decade and there is now a significant body of research in its application to biomedical problems with the possibility of developing it into viable medical imaging modality in the future. The motivation being to fill some of the shortfalls in existing medical imaging technologies especially in detecting early stage cancers. We review the main developments in terahertz imaging to-date and highlight the most promising current areas of biomedical terahertz research. Additionally, we provide an overview of the principles behind terahertz imaging along with illustrated examples to aid understanding for those new to the technology. Our aim is to increase awareness of the existence and potential of the technology and inspire solutions to the remaining challenges in developing terahertz imaging into a novel medical imaging modality.