Analytical, Diagnostic and Therapeutic Techniques, and Equipment

Interference Microscopy

The science and application of a double-beam transmission interference microscope in which the illuminating light beam is split into two paths. One beam passes through the specimen while the other beam reflects off a reference mirror before joining and interfering with the other. The observed optical path difference between the two beams can be measured and used to discriminate minute differences in thickness and refraction of non-stained transparent specimens, such as living cells in culture.

National Library of MedicineMedical Subject Headings2026

Structured Summary

Abstract

The science and application of a double-beam transmission interference microscope in which the illuminating light beam is split into two paths. One beam passes through the specimen while the other beam reflects off a reference mirror before joining and interfering with the other. The observed optical path difference between the two beams can be measured and used to discriminate minute differences in thickness and refraction of non-stained transparent specimens, such as living cells in culture.

MeSH Record

Classification

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MeSH Record

Synonyms

9 entry terms
  • Interferometry, Microscopic
  • Microinterferometry
  • Microscopy, Interference
  • Microscopic Interferometry
  • Microscopy, Differential Interference Contrast
  • Microscopy, Interference Reflection
  • Microscopy, Nomarski Interference Contrast
  • Interference Reflection Microscopy
  • Reflection Microscopy, Interference

MeSH Record

Aspects Covered

14 allowable subheadings

Indexed with the subheadings adverse effects, classification, economics, ethics, history, instrumentation, methods, mortality, nursing, psychology, standards, statistics & numerical data, trends, veterinary.

MeSH Record

History Note

65(64)

MeSH Hierarchy

Tree Numbers

AMA Style

References

  1. National Library of Medicine. Interference Microscopy. Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). 2026. Unique ID D008857. http://id.nlm.nih.gov/mesh/2026/D008857
  2. Interference Microscopy. In: Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interference_microscopy
  3. Interference Microscopy. In: Wikidata. https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q12715702