Monte Carlo simulations related to gas-based optical diagnosis of human sinusitis

We investigate the feasibility of using diode laser gas spectroscopy for sinusitis diagnostics. We simulate light propagation using the Monte Carlo concept, as implemented by the Advanced Systems Analysis Program (ASAP (TM)) software. Simulations and experimental data are compared for a model based on two scattering bodies representing human tissue, with an air gap in-between representing the sinus cavity. Simulations are also performed to investigate the detection geometries used in the experiments, as well as the influence of the optical properties of the scattering bodies. Finally, we explore the possibility of performing imaging measurements of the sinuses. Results suggest that a diagnostic technique complementary to already existing ones could be developed. (C) 2007 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers