Pulse oximetry measurements are in question in diverse populations. Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive technique used to measure the oxygen saturation (SpO2) levels in blood. By utilizing the specific wavelengths of light absorbed by hemoglobin (HbO2) and deoxyhemoglobin (Hb), pulse oximeters can detect and relate the difference between the two absorption values as an SpO2 level. Melanin is responsible for pigmentation. It is found in the epidermis layer, and has been found to inhibit the amount of light passing through to the dermis, or vascularized, layer. Varying melanin concentrations in patients has led to the under-reporting of SpO2 levels. To calibrate these instruments, experimentally derived calibration curves are used based on measurements from “healthy young volunteers” after induction of hypoxemia. These calibration curves give no mention of the physical attributes for these volunteers. Here we describe an investigation into this issue using UV-Vis and near IR absorption and emission spectroscopies to more accurately read SpO2 levels, regardless of pigmentation.

Spectrophotometric determination of oxygen saturation in hemoglobin/melanin solutions to improve accuracy of oxygen pulsimetry measurement for patients of all backgrounds

ACS Spring 2022

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.