According to the recent article release in the journal Radiology, researchers from UC Irvine and University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign describe a method of using a laser to differentiate between benign and malignant tumors within breast tissue. The hand-held scanner device in the study is based on frequency domain photon migration and watches the scattering and absorption of laser light as it moves through tissue. The technology, already proving it effective in clinical trials, may bring a radiation-free modality to your breast cancer oncologist’s office. Here you can check out their press release:
In January, the researchers reported in the journal Radiology that this laser breast scanner can accurately distinguish between malignant and benign growths, possibly offering an easy, noninvasive way to tell whether breast tumors warrant aggressive treatment. The study involved 60 subjects and will be replicated with a larger test group.
Unlike mammograms, the scanner provides detailed metabolic information by measuring hemoglobin, fat and water content, as well as tumor oxygen consumption and tissue density. In the study, researchers found that potentially dangerous malignant tumors and benign tumors have different metabolic fingerprints.
Separately, the UCI laser breast scanner is proving beneficial in evaluating the effectiveness of chemotherapy by supplying detailed data on changes in breast tumor metabolism during treatments. This information, which can be accessed quickly at bedside, lets oncologists tailor chemotherapy based on how a patient responds.
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Thank you! You often write very interesting articles. You improved my mood.
Really have to appreciate Director of the UC Irvine’s Beckman Laser Institute – Bruce Tromberg and assistant researcher Albert Cerussi for developing such a wonderful medical gadget.
Thanks for sharing the update my friend.