© 1999 by Oxford University Press
Journal of the National Cancer Institute, Vol. 91, No. 24, 2072-2073,
December 15, 1999
© 1999 Oxford University Press
NEWS |
Shining Light on Breast Tumors
By using near-infrared light, which lies just outside the visible spectrum, researchers may soon be able to map the "optical signature" of breast tissue as a way of distinguishing between benign and malignant tumors. Although not yet ready for the clinic, optical mammography is being tested by several research groups and could obviate the need for biopsy in many women whose mammograms reveal suspicious lesions.
The new technology depends on the amount of blood hemoglobin present to detect a
signature difference between benign and malignant tumors. If that difference is significant
still a big "if" then optical mammography
Varied Applications
Still Lab-Bound
"Very Preliminary"