A system and method using a combined modality optical probe is provided. The system comprises: light source(s) providing excitation light； a first optical analysis device configured to receive light in a first range and analyze it using a first optical modality； a second optical analysis device configured to receive light in a second range and analyze it using a second optical modality slower than the first modality； an optical probe configured to: convey the excitation light to a tissue sample； receive the light in the first and second ranges from the sample； and, one or more optical conduits configured to: convey the excitation light from the light source(s) to the optical probe； convey the light in the first range from the optical probe to the first optical analysis device； and convey the light in the second range from the optical probe to the second optical analysis device.
