Determination of an optimized conversion matrix for device independent skin color image analysis.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE A cross-polarized diffuse reflectance (CDR) color imaging system was developed for quantitative evaluation of port wine stain (PWS) response to laser therapy. To obtain calibrated Commission International de l'Eclairage (CIE) color space images from RGB (red, green, and blue) images, it was necessary to derive an optimized conversion matrix specific to our imaging system. STUDY DESIGN/MATERIALS AND METHODS A chromameter (CR-200, Minolta) and CDR imaging system were used to acquire CIELAB (CIE L*, a*, and b*) tristimulus values and RGB image values, respectively. A cost function was defined using these sample data sets and then a minimization algorithm was applied to obtain an optimized conversion matrix for our imaging system and illumination conditions. CIELAB color space values (L*, a*, and b*) obtained with the chromameter and CDR color images were compared to assess the accuracy of the derived matrix. RESULTS In measurements using in vitro standard color patch or in vivo human skin samples, use of the optimized conversion matrix resulted in a good correlation with standard chromameter values for PWS human skin sites. CONCLUSIONS The cost function minimization algorithm resulted in an optimized conversion matrix for our CDR imaging system. Use of the optimized matrix improved the utility of CDR color image analysis as a simple non-contact measurement technique to monitor quantitatively PWS response to laser therapy.