Second harmonic generation microscopy to investigate collagen configuration: a pericarditis case study

We have used second-harmonic-generation (SHG) to image collagen fibers in pericardial tissue removed from a patient with constrictive pericarditis and compared this to healthy pericardium. SHG imaging allowed for the visualization of collagen fibers without the need for staining or pretreatment. Images were compared to stained histology slides. Collagen fibers in SHG and histology images displayed the same structure and morphology. The mature collagen of the parietal pericardium was easily distinguishable from the new collagen accumulation due to the pericarditis. SHG imaging can provide a convenient and valuable architectural profile of collagen organization.