An optical sampling interface system minimizes and compensates error
resulting from sampling variations and measurement site state
fluctuations. Components include: An optical probe placement guide having
an aperture wherein the optical probe is received, facilitates repeatable
placement accuracy on surface of a tissue measurement site with minimal,
repeatable disturbance to surface tissue. The aperture creates a tissue
meniscus that minimizes interference due to surface irregularities and
controls variation in tissue volume sampled; an occlusive element placed
over the tissue meniscus isolates the meniscus from environmental
fluctuations, stabilizing hydration at the site and thus, surface
tension; an optical coupling medium eliminates air gaps between skin
surface and optical probe; a bias correction element applies a bias
correction to spectral measurements, and associated analyte measurements.
When the guide is replaced, a new bias correction is determined for
measurements done with the new placement. Separate components of system
can be individually deployed.