Confocal laser endomicroscopy

Abstract

Endomicroscopy is a newly developed imaging modality, which provides in vivo histology during ongoing endoscopy. This review characterizes the currently available endomicroscopic systems and reflects the clinical value of endomicroscopy for different diseases. Endomicroscopy can be used to discover histology of the mucosal layer at cellular and subcellular resolution. Furthermore, endomicroscopy can be used to observe physiologic and pathophysiologic changes, which offer a newly available insight into the pathogenesis of different diseases. The diagnostic possibilities of endomicroscopy are extensive and highly valuable for every day practice. However, the era of endomicroscopy has just started and it can be anticipated that its role will significantly increase in the future.