CLE utilizes a laser light source that scans the tissue through a flexible endoscope. Fluorescent dyes are often administered intravenously or topically to enhance contrast. As the laser scans the tissue, the emitted fluorescence is collected and passed through a confocal aperture, which filters out-of-focus light. This results in high-resolution images of the tissue's cellular and subcellular structures, allowing for immediate assessment and diagnosis.
