Depth-scanning confocal Raman for rapid in vivo determination of testosterone concentration profiles in human skin

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The present study aimed to measure in-vivo the depth and the percentage of testosterone in human skin. METHOD: Two healthy young Brazilian volunteers were evaluated through a Confocal Raman Spectroscopy probe on the right volar forearm. Testosterone spectroscopy of was performed on the Stratum Corneum, Viable Epidermis and Dermis; the percentage concentration of testosterone was compared between the baseline and one hour after local application of a transdermal nanostructured testosterone (5%) formulation. RESULTS: To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time that the depth and percentage of testosterone has been evaluated non-invasively in-vivo. No adverse events were attributed to this protocol. The method is effective in differentially measuring testosterone in the skin layers. CONCLUSION: This protocol may serve as a good choice for rapid hormone quantification for forensic or medical purposes.