What source is used to obtain an optical coherence tomography image?

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a non-invasive imaging technique that provides high-resolution images of the structures within biological tissues, particularly in ophthalmology for imaging the retina. The method operates based on the principles of light interference, allowing for the capture of detailed cross-sectional images.

High-resolution imaging is crucial in OCT as it enables the visualization of structures at a microscopic level, which is essential for diagnosing conditions such as macular degeneration or glaucoma. The superior resolution allows clinicians to detect subtle changes or abnormalities in the tissue layers.

Mid-resolution, low light, and color-doppler imaging do not align with the capabilities and applications of OCT. Mid-resolution imaging lacks the clarity needed for detailed analysis, low light imaging refers to techniques that capture images in dim conditions but do not provide the necessary resolution for OCT, and color-doppler imaging focuses on blood flow rather than the structural details that OCT aims to provide. Thus, high resolution is the defining feature that characterizes the data obtained through optical coherence tomography.