Imaging at terahertz frequencies (0.1-10 THz, wavelengths 3 mm-30 µm) has proven to be useful in the biomedical field. Still, the acquisition time is an important hurdle. Here, we discuss recent developments toward achieving real-time THz imaging. First, we demonstrate a spectral encoding algorithm to reconstruct a 4500-pixels image with 45 measurements. Second, we improve the image resolution using a super-resolution algorithm specifically developed for the THz. Third, we discuss our most recent work on the fabrication of an THz photoconductive antenna array for imaging. These works pave the way for future applications of THz imaging in biomedical science.

Diabetic foot syndrome, a consequence of Diabetes is, after traumatic accidents, the main cause of amputations. Currently there is no established method for its early diagnosis and prevention of its consequences. Terahertz imaging is capable of mapping the cutaneous hydration, an indicator of the diabetic foot deterioration. We performed imaging on 198 patients including non-diabetic, controlled and deteriorated diabetics, which is, as far as we know, the largest human population ever imaged with terahertz. Our terahertz measurements combined with neurological and vascular assessment of the patients indicates that the dehydration is related to neuropathy without a significant vascular cause.