Method, computer programme and system for analysing a sample comprising identifying or sorting cells according to the FTIR spectrum each cell produces

A method for analysing a sample obtained from a subject, comprising the steps of:

• a. providing a spectrum produced by spectrally scanning the sample using a single crystal element ATR infrared spectroscopy technique, wherein the spectrum is an average spectrum over a substantial part of the sample;
• and
• b. identifying one or more tissue types in the sample according to the spectrum each such tissue type produces;
• wherein the identifying comprises a combination of steps of:
• (i) assigning the spectrum to either:
• a first classification;
• or a squamous classification, wherein the first classification includes but does not distinguish between non-dysplastic, high-grade-dysplastic and cancerous tissue types;
• (ii) assigning a spectrum from the first classification to either:
• an epithelial classification;
• or a lamina propria classification;
• (iii a) assigning an epithelial spectrum to either:
• a non-dysplastic classification;
• or a high-grade-dysplastic or cancerous classification;
• (iii b) assigning a lamina propria spectrum to either:
• a non-dysplastic classification;
• or a high-grade-dysplastic or cancerous classification;
• and
• c. determining the presence or absence of a disease state depending on whether high-grade-dysplastic or cancerous tissue types are identified in the sample.