In a non-invasive optical detection system and method, sample light is delivered into a scattering medium. A first portion of the sample light passing through a volume of interest exits the scattering medium as signal light, and a second portion of the sample light passing through a volume of non-interest exits the scattering medium as background light that is combined with the signal light to create a sample light pattern. Reference light is combined with the sample light pattern to create an interference light pattern having a holographic beat component. Ultrasound is emitted into the volume of non-interest in a manner that decorrelates the background light of the sample light pattern from the holographic beat component. The holographic beat component is detected during the measurement period. An optical parameter of the volume of interest is determined based on the detected holographic beat component.
