Influence of Melanin Content on Laser Doppler Flowmetry and Tissue Reflectance Oximetry Signal Formation

The article presents the results of studies of the melanin effect on recorded signals in laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) and tissue reflectance oximetry (TO). By investigating the properties of recorded microvascular blood flow and skin oxygenation signals, we have gained new knowledge about race-related differences in the formation of these signals. The effect of the skin melanin content on the intensity of the recorded signals in the LDF and TO methods was evaluated, and the limitations in the use of these methods in representatives of different ethnic groups were shown.